NACS or CCS charging plugs? It's not that simple...
With the rapid growth of electric vehicles (EVs) worldwide, the need for standardized charging solutions has become crucial. Two popular charging standards that have emerged are the North American Charging Standard (NACS) and the Combined Charging System (CCS). In this article, we will explore the features, benefits, drawbacks, and the future of both these standards.
What is NACS (North American Charging Standard) and CCS (Combined Charging System)?
Understanding NACS
The North American Charging Standard (NACS) is a charging protocol developed specifically for electric vehicles in North America. It defines the specifications for the charging connectors and communication between the EV and the charging station. NACS aims to ensure a safe and reliable charging experience for EV owners.
Understanding CCS
The Combined Charging System (CCS) is an international standard developed by major automakers and charging infrastructure providers. It combines the use of AC and DC charging to support both slow and fast charging. CCS connectors can accommodate different power levels, making it flexible for various EV models.
Differences between NACS and CCS
One key difference between NACS and CCS is their geographical reach. While NACS is primarily used in North America, CCS is adopted worldwide, including Europe and Asia. Additionally, NACS is a proprietary standard mainly used by Tesla, while CCS is a more open standard that allows for broader compatibility among different EV models.
Which automakers are using NACS and CCS?
Automakers using NACS
Tesla is the primary automaker adopting NACS. They have built a vast network of Supercharger stations across North America, utilizing the NACS connectors for fast charging. However, it’s worth noting that Tesla vehicles are able to use CCS chargers if a CCS to NACS adapter is used.
Automakers using CCS
A wide range of automakers, including major players like Ford and General Motors (GM), have embraced the CCS standard for their EV models. CCS chargers are becoming more prevalent in public charging networks and combine the advantage of AC and DC charging, making it a versatile solution for all EV owners.
Comparing adoption rates of NACS and CCS
While NACS has seen significant adoption among Tesla owners, CCS is gaining popularity globally due to its wider compatibility. The European market, in particular, has rapidly embraced CCS, resulting in a larger network of CCS Chargers compared to NACS chargers in the region.
What are the benefits of NACS over CCS?
Faster charging with NACS
One advantage of NACS is its ability to deliver faster charging speeds compared to the North American CCS. Tesla Superchargers, which utilize the NACS standard, can charge Tesla vehicles at a much higher rate compared to many CCS chargers currently available in the US market. But in Europe and much of the rest of the world who use CCS2, they can also reach speeds of 350kW.
Wider availability of NACS chargers
As Tesla has invested significantly in building a robust charging infrastructure, NACS chargers are more widely available in North America. Tesla owners can enjoy the convenience of accessing a well-established network of Superchargers, ensuring seamless long-distance travel without any range anxiety.
NACS charging experience compared to CCS
Many Tesla owners have reported positive experiences with the NACS charging process. The Tesla Superchargers offer a user-friendly interface and are known for their reliability and efficient power delivery. The integration of charging stations and vehicle software enhances the overall charging experience for Tesla users.
What are the drawbacks of NACS compared to CCS?
Less international compatibility with NACS
One of the major drawbacks of NACS is its limited compatibility outside of North America. For Tesla owners traveling to countries where CCS is the prevailing charging standard, they would require an adapter to access the existing charging network, which can be inconvenient.
Limited charging network for NACS
Although Tesla has built a substantial Supercharger network, it primarily serves their own vehicles. Non-Tesla EV owners may face challenges finding reliable NACS chargers, especially in areas where CCS chargers are more prevalent. This is why, regardless of your vehicle, it could be a smart decision (at least in the transition) to make sure your car has an adapter to allow charging across the whole charging network. In some cases, Tesla now has a new adaptor fitted to their Superchargers called the Magic Dock which allows conversion to plug into the CCS port of an electric car and will charge at up to 250kW. Check your local chargers for the availability as this new system rolls out.
Proprietary nature of NACS
As NACS is a proprietary standard used exclusively by Tesla, it presents challenges when it comes to interoperability and the potential for collaboration with other automakers. CCS, being an open standard, encourages collaboration and allows for cross-compatibility among manufacturers.
What is the future of NACS and CCS?
Upcoming developments in NACS
Tesla has recently announced plans to transition from their proprietary NACS connectors to the CCS standard for their vehicles sold in Europe. This move is aimed at providing Tesla owners with access to a broader charging network and promoting standardization.
Advancements in CCS technology
The CCS standard continues to evolve, with improvements in charging speeds and compatibility. The ongoing advancements in CCS technology aim to provide a seamless charging experience for all EV owners and encourage the further adoption of electric vehicles globally.
Competition between NACS and CCS in the market
As the market for electric vehicles expands, the competition between NACS and CCS is expected to intensify. While Tesla's Supercharger network provides a significant advantage in terms of charging speed and coverage in North America, the broader compatibility and increasing availability of CCS chargers worldwide may attract more automakers and users.
In conclusion, both NACS and CCS have their strengths and weaknesses when it comes to electric vehicle charging standards. The choice between the two ultimately depends on factors such as geographical location, charging speed requirements, and available infrastructure. As the EV market continues to evolve, it's likely that the industry will move towards a more unified standard that offers compatibility, convenience, and improved charging experiences for all electric vehicle owners.
Which manufacturers will use NACS?
Many manufacturers will be equipping their cars with NACS charge ports by 2025. They are Fisker, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Polestar, Rivian, and Volvo.
It looks clear that in the fullness of time, all manufacturers of cars sold in America will adopt the NACS connector. Not everyone has announced plans to change just yet. Ultimately, regardless of what you drive, all you want is the ability to charge at any station you come across when you need it. That way, charging standards won’t be confusing. It will be just ubiquitously possible.
Here are the specifics of how that rollout will occur (whether ‘in’ or ‘by’ a certain year):
- Ford, Nissan will use NACS in 2025
- GM, Mercedes, Volvo, Polestar will switch from CCS to NACS by 2025
- Rivian will adopt NACS by 2025, but offer access to NACS via adapter, by 2024
- ChargePoint, the charging company will offer NACS plugs by the end of 2023, but expect that rollout to take time (as it won’t be instant across their network)
- Electrify America will offer the NACS connector at all its 850 stations by 2025.
Regardless of the timing, if you have an EV, you need the capability to plug into a charger at a charging station. You may need an adapter. Make sure you have one! It’s as simple as that. (THEN WE NEED AFFILIATE LINK HERE.)
The Differences Summarized
The main points and the differences between NACS and CCS can be summed up as follows:
- NACS has been in use since 2012 by Tesla.
- NACS became available to other manufacturers in 2022.
- CCS has separate pins for delivering alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) power
- NACS leverages the same pins for both AC and DC.
- the NACS plug is slimmer and less bulky, the cable is slimmer.
- Under the right conditions, CCS and NACS are capable of similarly high charge speeds
- You can purchase a CCS Combo 1 to NACS charging adapter to enable you to charge anywhere.
- NACS is not a 3-phase charger. NACS is a 2-pin plug, while CCS has 4 pins, 1 for each of 3 phases and a neutral pin.
- NACS will not replace CCS, it will join CCS-1 connectors at charging stations.
- Ultimately, this is a decision for manufacturers in North America. All the consumer wants is ease of charge, and ability to charge in a comprehensive charging network.
The Bottom Line
If you drive an EV, all you really want to know is that you can drive up to a DC fast charger and simply charge, without issue. I mean, do you really care what kind of connector is used?
If you’d like to read more about which car manufacturers are switching to use NACS in the US market, follow the link below:
https://www.digitaltrends.com/cars/ev-companies-using-tesla-nacs-charging-connector/