EV CHARGERS

Volkswagen Group’s Transition to NACS Charging Standard: A Major Shift in the EV Landscape

December 20, 2023

Volkswagen Group, including VW, Porsche, Audi, and Scout Motors, is transitioning to the Tesla charging standard (NACS) for their electric vehicles by 2025.
Electrify America, a subsidiary of Volkswagen Group, will offer NACS connectors at its charging stations in 2025, providing access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network.
Stellantis is the only major automaker yet to adopt NACS but plans to release electric vehicles (EVs) in 2024-2025. They are also partnering with other automakers to expand EV charging infrastructure, supporting both CCS and NACS plugs.

In a move that echoes the immortal words of Freddie Mercury and Queen, “Another One Bites the Dust,” we witness yet another major automaker making the switch from CCS to NACS charging standards. The latest addition to the list of auto brands adopting the Tesla charging standard includes prominent names within the Volkswagen Group: VW, Porsche, Audi, and Scout Motors.

Like their counterparts who’ve already announced their transition to NACS, the Volkswagen Group is gearing up to make the switch, and it’s slated to take effect with the 2025 model years. However, what sets this transition apart is the additional step the group is taking. Volkswagen, Porsche, Audi, and Scout Motors are actively exploring adaptors to ensure that existing EV models can access the Tesla charging system seamlessly once the NACS switch occurs.

“This is great news for our electric vehicle customers in the North American Region,” said Pablo Di Si, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America. “This potentially provides them with access to more than 15,000 additional charging points as well as the current near-4,000 DC fast charging outlets operated by Electrify America. It would mean that customers of our fast-selling electric vehicles like the Volkswagen ID.4 will have access to an extensive and growing charging network.”

Electrify America’s Role in Facilitating the Volkswagen Group NACS Transition

But what’s driving this shift, and what’s happening with Electrify America, a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group? This strategic move opens doors for EV drivers, granting them access to Tesla’s vast network of over 15,000 Superchargers, thus adding more convenience to the ownership experience.

“We strive to provide an exceptional and seamless customer experience, and when it comes to charging, greater choice is a key factor in delivering this,” said Timo Resch, President and CEO of Porsche Cars North America. “Today our customers already have access to thousands of charging sites across America thanks to Electrify America, with existing stations being renewed and new sites being added weekly. We are proud to announce that in 2025 we will also partner with Tesla to significantly expand the network of chargers throughout the U.S. that will become available to our customers.”

In fact, those who own a Volkswagen ID.4 already enjoy complimentary charging at over 3,800 DC fast charging Electrify America stations. And here’s the kicker – Electrify America will begin offering the NACS connectors at its charging stations, starting in 2025. Rest assured, though, as they will continue to support EVs with CCS ports.

Stellantis’ Unique Position in the Evolving EV Landscape

With this latest development, only one major automaker remains on the CCS standard: Stellantis. It’s worth noting that in the United States, Stellantis exclusively offers plug-in hybrid vehicles, none of which currently have the capacity to utilize a DC fast-charging system. Nevertheless, Stellantis has ambitious plans for the future, with several EVs scheduled for release in 2024 and 2025, including the RAM Rev, Jeep Recon, and Dodge Charger EV.

Interestingly, Stellantis is already collaborating with industry giants like BMW Group, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, and Mercedes-Benz Group to expand the EV charging infrastructure across the United States. These charging stations will cater to both CCS and NACS plugs, accommodating a wide range of electric vehicles and further solidifying the shift towards NACS as the charging standard of choice in the automotive industry.