Rivian, an automaker, has recently joined Tesla in using the North American Charging Standard (NACS) for their electric vehicles. This decision follows similar announcements from Ford and General Motors, stating that their upcoming electric vehicles will be compatible with Tesla Superchargers.
Existing Rivian vehicles will receive an adapter to use the NACS charging standard. Additionally, all future Rivian vehicles, including the current R1T and R1S models, will come equipped with the NACS charge port as a standard feature.
RJ Scaringe, the CEO and founder of Rivian, expressed excitement about the partnership with Tesla. In a statement, he mentioned that adopting the North American Charging Standard will allow Rivian customers to take advantage of Tesla’s expansive Supercharger network. At the same time, Rivian will continue building its own charging network called the Rivian Adventure Network.
Today we signed an agreement with @Tesla to adopt the North American Charging Standard. This opens charging for Rivian vehicles on Tesla's Supercharger network across the United States and Canada. Access starts as soon as Spring 2024. https://t.co/Z5SBOFytgy pic.twitter.com/fWOMNtpkYs
— Rivian (@Rivian) June 20, 2023
The Rivian Adventure Network is designed to feature DC fast chargers and will be strategically located along popular routes and highways. This network aims to provide convenient charging options for Rivian vehicle owners, enabling them to embark on long-distance journeys with peace of mind.
While Rivian is collaborating with Tesla on charging standards, it is unclear whether the Rivian Adventure Network will also include NACS chargers. However, the primary focus for Rivian is to develop their own charging infrastructure, complemented by the opportunity to utilize Tesla’s Supercharger network.
This alignment with Tesla’s charging standard further solidifies Tesla’s dominant position in the American-made electric vehicle market. With the support of major automakers like Ford and General Motors, Tesla is rapidly expanding its influence. As a result, other companies in the EV charging industry are finding it increasingly challenging to compete solely against Tesla.
Foreign automakers have yet to establish similar partnerships with Tesla, leaving them at a disadvantage in the American electric vehicle market. Tesla’s Supercharger network, combined with its growing number of partners, gives the company a significant edge in charging infrastructure and accessibility.
