Kia EVs Gain Tesla Supercharger Access January 2025 Update Available
In a significant development for electric vehicle (EV) owners, Kia has announced that its electric vehicles will gain access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger network starting January 15, 2025. This move follows similar agreements by other major automakers, including Ford, Rivian, and General Motors, to utilize Tesla's expansive DC fast-charging infrastructure.
Eligibility and Free Adapters
Kia will provide complimentary North American Charging Standard (NACS) adapters to customers who purchased a 2024 or 2025 Kia EV9 or a 2024 Kia EV6 on or after September 4, 2024. These adapters are essential for enabling vehicles equipped with the Combined Charging System 1 (CCS1) plug to use Tesla's Supercharger network, which employs the NACS connector. Deliveries of these free adapters are scheduled to begin in early 2025.
Adapter Availability for Other Owners
For Kia EV owners who purchased their vehicles before September 4, 2024, the adapters will not be provided free of charge. Instead, these owners will have the option to purchase the necessary adapters from authorized Kia dealerships or third-party suppliers. The cost of these adapters has not been specified by Kia, but for reference, General Motors sells a similar Tesla-made NACS to CCS1 adapter for $225, while third-party options are slightly less expensive.
Multiple Adapter Options
Kia plans to offer three types of adapters to cater to different charging needs:
- A NACS to CCS1 adapter, allowing current Kia EVs to fast-charge on Tesla Superchargers.
- A CCS1 to NACS adapter, enabling future Kia EVs equipped with the Tesla plug to charge at CCS1 stalls, such as those offered by Electrify America and EVgo.
- A J1772 to NACS adapter, allowing NACS-equipped Kia EVs to AC-charge on non-Tesla Level 2 chargers.
Transition to NACS
Kia, along with its affiliate Hyundai, has decided to adopt Tesla's North American Charging Standard (NACS) connector for upcoming models. The refreshed 2025 Kia EV6 will be the first Kia EV sold in the U.S. with a native NACS charging port, marking a shift away from the CCS1 connector. Other models, including the EV9, are expected to follow suit in the future.
Charging and Payment Integration
To facilitate seamless charging experiences, Kia will launch a software update in early 2025 that will enable customers to manage payments and charging directly through the vehicle's infotainment system or the Kia Access app on their phones. This update will allow Kia EV owners to initiate charging and pay for top-ups without needing the Tesla app, mirroring the convenience of Tesla's own charging system.
Expanded Charging Network Access
With access to over 16,500 Tesla Superchargers across the U.S., Kia EV owners will significantly benefit from the expanded charging network. This integration is part of a broader trend where multiple automakers are collaborating to enhance the charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, making long-distance travel more practical and convenient for EV owners.