NACS Port Adoption Grows: Hyundai, Kia, Subaru, and Lucid Unveil NACS-Compatible EVs at the 2025 New York Auto Show

At the 2025 New York Auto Show, the buzz was all about the growing trend of NACS port adoption. Major automakers like Hyundai, Kia, Subaru, and Lucid Motors showcased their latest electric vehicles (EVs) that come equipped with the North American Charging Standard (NACS). This shift marks a significant step in the EV industry, making charging more accessible and convenient for consumers. Let's take a closer look at how these brands are embracing the NACS standard and what it means for the future of electric vehicles.

Key Takeaways

• NACS adoption is increasing rapidly among major automakers.

• Hyundai is offering free NACS adapters to its EV customers starting in early 2025.

• Kia's new EV models will feature NACS ports, enhancing their compatibility with Tesla's Supercharger network.

• Subaru is entering the NACS-compatible market, expanding its EV lineup and charging plans.

• Lucid Motors is also integrating NACS into its vehicles, aiming for better charging solutions for its users.

NACS Port Adoption Gains Momentum

The buzz around the North American Charging Standard (NACS) is getting louder, and it's hard to ignore. What started as Tesla's charging port is quickly becoming the go-to for most EV manufacturers. The 2025 New York Auto Show really drove this point home, with Hyundai, Kia, Subaru, and Lucid all showcasing their upcoming NACS-compatible EVs. It feels like the industry is finally coalescing around a single standard, which should make life easier for everyone.

Overview of NACS Standard

So, what exactly is NACS? Well, it's the charging port originally designed by Tesla. It's smaller and, some say, more efficient than the Combined Charging System (CCS). The big deal is that Tesla opened up the design, allowing other automakers to adopt it. This move has led to a snowball effect, with more and more companies jumping on board. It's not just about the port itself, but also about access to Tesla's massive Supercharger network.

Impact on EV Market

The impact of NACS adoption is already being felt. Automakers are announcing plans to integrate NACS into their future models, and charging networks are starting to add NACS connectors to their stations. This means more charging options for EV owners and potentially faster charging speeds. The shift could also streamline manufacturing and reduce costs for automakers, as they won't have to support multiple charging standards. The Kia EV9 is a great example of a vehicle benefiting from these advancements.

Future Projections for NACS

Looking ahead, the future seems bright for NACS. Most experts predict that it will become the dominant charging standard in North America within the next few years. This will lead to a more unified and accessible charging infrastructure, which will, in turn, encourage more people to switch to EVs. The New York Auto Show highlighted the shift in the automotive market, with more EVs adopting the Tesla charging port. We can expect to see even more innovation in charging technology as NACS becomes more widespread. By 2026, most brands are expected to adopt NACS ports for new models.

The move towards NACS isn't just about convenience; it's about creating a more sustainable and efficient transportation system. A unified charging standard will reduce range anxiety, lower costs, and accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles, paving the way for a cleaner future.

Here's a quick look at the projected growth of NACS-compatible chargers:

Year	Projected NACS Chargers	Growth Rate
2025	30,000	N/A
2026	60,000	100%
2027	100,000	67%

Hyundai's Commitment to NACS Integration

Free NACS Adapters for Customers

Hyundai is making moves to smooth the transition to NACS for its current EV owners. Starting in early 2025, Hyundai began distributing free CCS to Tesla NACS adapters to customers who purchased or leased their EVs on or before January 31st, 2025. This includes models like the Kona Electric, Ioniq hatchback, Ioniq 5, and Ioniq 6. You can request the free adapter through the My Hyundai owner portal.

New Models Featuring NACS

Hyundai isn't just offering adapters; they're also integrating NACS ports directly into their new EVs. The 2025 model year Ioniq 5 EVs are already shipping with native NACS ports. This eliminates the need for an adapter and provides a more streamlined charging experience at Tesla Superchargers. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade will also feature NACS.

Partnerships with Charging Networks

Hyundai understands that a robust charging infrastructure is key to EV adoption. To that end, they're actively forming partnerships with various charging networks to expand charging options for their customers. This includes not only access to Tesla's Supercharger network via NACS but also continued support for CCS charging stations. Hyundai is also investing in the development of next-generation hybrid powertrain system.

Hyundai's commitment to NACS integration reflects a broader industry trend toward standardization. By embracing NACS, Hyundai aims to improve the charging experience for its customers and contribute to the growth of the EV market.

Here's a quick look at Hyundai's NACS transition plan:

• Free adapters for existing EV owners (early 2025).

• Native NACS ports in new models (starting with 2025 Ioniq 5).

• Ongoing partnerships with charging networks.

Kia's Transition to NACS-Compatible EVs

Kia EV6 and EV9 Updates

Kia is making big moves to embrace the NACS charging standard. The updated 2025 Kia EV6 will come standard with a Tesla-style NACS port. Kia will also include the port on the upcoming 2026 EV9 three-row SUV. This is a significant step towards improving the charging experience for Kia EV owners. I think it's great that Kia is thinking about the future and making it easier for people to charge their cars.

NACS Adapter Availability

Kia is providing NACS adapters for current EV6 and EV9 owners. These adapters allow Kia EVs with CCS ports to access Tesla's Supercharger network. Kia dealerships are now receiving NACS adapters meant to be free to EV6 and EV9 owners who purchased the new vehicles on or after September 4th, 2024. Kia also says owners can buy the adapter from dealers. It's a bit of a wait, but it's better than nothing. I'm sure people will be happy to get their hands on these.

Charging Infrastructure Expansion

Kia's adoption of NACS is timed perfectly with the expansion of charging infrastructure. Tesla's Supercharger network has over 21,500 stalls across North America, making it a huge asset for EV drivers. Kia EVs were originally supposed to get access to Superchargers in January, but it was delayed until March, and now it has finally gone through. This expansion means more convenient and reliable charging options for Kia owners, which is a win-win for everyone. I'm excited to see how this changes the game for EV adoption.

Kia's transition to NACS is a smart move. It's all about making charging easier and more accessible for EV owners. By embracing the NACS standard, Kia is ensuring that its customers have access to a vast and growing network of charging stations. This will not only improve the ownership experience but also help to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles.

Here's a quick look at the timeline:

• Early 2025: Hyundai starts shipping EVs with native NACS ports.

• March 2025: Kia EVs gain access to Tesla Superchargers.

• 2025 Kia EV6: Refreshed model comes standard with NACS port.

• 2026 Kia EV9: Three-row SUV will also feature NACS port.

And here's a table showing the charging network growth:

Network	Stalls (US & Canada)
Tesla	20,000+
Other CCS	Varies

Kia's electric vehicles will get Tesla Supercharger access sometime in March 2025, the company announced in a statement.

Subaru's Entry into NACS-Compatible EVs

Subaru's EV Lineup Overview

Subaru has been steadily expanding its electric vehicle offerings, with the Solterra leading the charge. While initially relying on the CCS charging standard, Subaru is now embracing NACS to improve the charging experience for its customers. The current lineup focuses on providing reliable and capable vehicles, and the move to NACS is expected to enhance their appeal. The Solterra features enhanced battery preconditioning technology, allowing it to charge from 10% to 80% efficiently.

NACS Integration Plans

Subaru's plan for NACS integration involves a phased approach. Starting with the 2026 models, new EVs will feature native NACS ports. For existing EV owners, Subaru intends to offer NACS adapters, ensuring compatibility with Tesla's extensive Supercharger network. This transition aims to provide Subaru EV owners with access to a broader and more convenient charging infrastructure. In 2025, all Subaru electric vehicles will support the North American Charging Standard (NACS).

Market Positioning and Strategy

Subaru is positioning itself as a provider of rugged and dependable EVs, catering to customers who value outdoor adventures and all-weather performance. The adoption of NACS aligns with this strategy by addressing a key concern for EV owners: charging accessibility. By offering NACS compatibility, Subaru aims to attract a wider range of customers and strengthen its position in the competitive EV market. The all-new 2026 Trailseeker features a NACS-compatible charge port and boasts a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds.

Subaru's strategy is pretty clear: build tough, reliable EVs and make them easy to charge. NACS is a big part of that, giving their customers more options on the road. It's about making the EV experience less stressful and more in line with what Subaru owners expect from their vehicles.

Lucid Motors and NACS Adoption

Lucid Motors is making a big move by integrating the North American Charging Standard (NACS) into their vehicles. This is a pretty significant step for them, and for the EV industry as a whole. Let's take a closer look at what this means for Lucid owners and the future of their charging experience.

Lucid's EV Models with NACS

Lucid is planning to roll out NACS ports in its future models. The Lucid Gravity SUV Gravity SUV, unveiled at the 2025 New York Auto Show New York Auto Show, will be among the first to feature the NACS port directly from the factory. This means owners can plug into Tesla's Supercharger network without needing an adapter. For existing Lucid Air owners, the company will offer adapters to ensure compatibility with the growing NACS infrastructure. This move should make charging a lot more convenient for Lucid drivers, especially when traveling.

Charging Solutions for Lucid Owners

Lucid is thinking about more than just the port itself. They're also working on a broader charging ecosystem for their customers. This includes:

• Partnerships with charging networks to expand access to reliable charging stations.

• Developing home charging solutions that are both fast and convenient.

• Providing software updates to optimize the charging experience.

Lucid's goal is to make charging as easy as refueling a gas car. They understand that a seamless charging experience is crucial for driving EV adoption, and they're investing heavily in this area.

Future Developments in NACS

Lucid's commitment to NACS goes beyond just adding the port to their cars. They're actively involved in shaping the future of the standard. This includes:

• Collaborating with other automakers to ensure interoperability.

• Working with charging networks to expand the NACS infrastructure.

• Supporting the development of new charging technologies.

By embracing NACS, Lucid is positioning itself as a leader in the EV industry and Hyundai Ioniq 5 is also doing the same. This move will benefit their customers and help accelerate the transition to electric vehicles.

The Role of Tesla in NACS Standardization

Tesla's Supercharger Network

Tesla's Supercharger network was a game-changer. It wasn't just about having charging stations; it was about having a reliable, widespread network that gave EV owners confidence. This extensive network became a major selling point for Tesla vehicles and put pressure on other automakers to improve charging infrastructure. Now, with the NACS adoption, other EVs can access this network, expanding charging options for everyone. Tesla's early investment really shaped the current landscape.

NACS vs. CCS Debate

For a while, it was NACS versus CCS, a battle of charging standards. CCS was seen as the more open, industry-backed standard, while NACS was, well, Tesla's thing. But NACS had a key advantage: it was already deployed and working at scale. The debate wasn't just about technical specs; it was about which standard would win in the real world. Now that GM recommends using a NACS adapter, it seems NACS has won.

Industry Reactions to NACS

Initially, there was some resistance to NACS. Automakers had already invested in CCS, and switching meant more costs. But the writing was on the wall: consumers wanted access to Tesla's Supercharger network. One by one, automakers started announcing their adoption of NACS. Now, even Genesis electric vehicles will feature a NACS charging port. It's a pretty big shift, and it shows how much influence Tesla had in shaping the future of EV charging.

The move to NACS wasn't just about technology; it was about market forces. Tesla had built a better charging experience, and the rest of the industry had to adapt or be left behind. This shift highlights the importance of user experience in driving technology adoption.

Here's a quick look at the timeline:

• 2012: Tesla starts building its Supercharger network.

• 2022-2023: NACS gains momentum as Tesla opens it up to other automakers.

• 2024: Most major automakers announce NACS adoption.

• 2025: Adapters become available, and new NACS-equipped EVs start rolling out.

Consumer Benefits of NACS Adoption

Increased Charging Accessibility

Okay, so picture this: you're on a road trip, and your EV is running low. Before, finding a compatible charger could be a real headache, right? But with NACS becoming the standard, it's like suddenly having way more options. Think of it as going from a tiny selection of restaurants to practically every place in town accepting your order.

• More charging stations available overall.

• Less range anxiety on long trips.

• Easier to find charging in rural areas.

Cost Savings for EV Owners

Let's talk money. With NACS, there's a good chance charging costs will become more competitive. More stations mean more competition, and that usually translates to better prices for us, the consumers. Plus, think about the adapters. Early adopters might need them, but eventually, everyone will have the same port, cutting down on adapter costs. It's a win-win.

• Lower charging fees due to increased competition.

• Reduced need for costly adapters in the long run.

• Potential for bundled charging plans across different networks.

Enhanced Charging Speed

NACS isn't just about convenience; it's about speed too. The design allows for faster charging rates, meaning less time plugged in and more time on the road. Nobody wants to spend half their trip waiting for their car to charge, and NACS is a step in the right direction to fix that. The North American Charging Standard is designed for high power delivery.

• Faster charging times at compatible stations.

• More efficient energy transfer.

• Reduced overall travel time for EV road trips.

The move to NACS is a big deal for EV owners. It's not just about having more places to charge; it's about making the whole experience smoother and more affordable. It's like upgrading from dial-up to broadband – a noticeable improvement in speed and convenience.

Challenges Facing NACS Implementation

Infrastructure Readiness

Okay, so everyone's jumping on the NACS bandwagon, which is cool, but let's be real – are we actually ready? It's not just about slapping new plugs on existing stations. We're talking about a massive overhaul. The current charging infrastructure needs serious upgrades to handle the increased demand and ensure reliability. Think about it: more EVs using the same chargers means longer wait times and potential grid strain. Plus, not all existing stations are in the best shape to begin with. It's like upgrading your phone but still using dial-up internet – the phone's great, but the internet's gonna hold you back. We need to make sure the charging networks can actually support all these new NACS-equipped cars hitting the road. It's a race against time, and right now, the infrastructure is lagging behind.

Consumer Awareness and Education

Switching to NACS isn't just a technical thing; it's also a people thing. Most EV owners are used to CCS, and now we're throwing a new standard into the mix. There's gonna be confusion, guaranteed. People will need to know:

• What NACS is and why it's different.

• How to use adapters (at least for a while).

• Where to find NACS chargers.

• What to do if they run into problems.

Nissan even put out a tutorial video for Ariya owners that shows how to use a Tesla NACS adapter with the vehicle. It includes a step completely out of left field: shove a small piece of plastic into your car’s CCS port before you connect the adapter. Automakers need to step up and provide clear, easy-to-understand information. Otherwise, we're just setting people up for frustration. It's like switching to a new phone operating system – if you don't know how to use it, you're gonna have a bad time.

Compatibility Issues with Older Models

What about all the EVs that are already on the road with CCS ports? They're not just gonna disappear. For a while, at least, adapters will be the name of the game. But adapters aren't a perfect solution. They can be clunky, add extra points of failure, and might not support the fastest charging speeds. Plus, there's the whole

Industry Reactions to NACS Growth

Automaker Responses

It's interesting to see how automakers are reacting to the whole NACS thing. At first, there was definitely some hesitation, but now it seems like everyone's jumping on board. Most major players, like Ford and GM, have already committed to integrating NACS into their future EVs. It's a big shift from the CCS standard, and it shows how much influence Tesla has had on the industry. Some are offering free NACS adapters to current EV owners, which is a nice move. It's not just the big guys either; smaller companies are also adapting, which suggests a real consensus is forming.

Consumer Sentiment

Consumers seem pretty happy about the move to NACS. I mean, who wouldn't want more access to charging stations? The Tesla Supercharger network is huge, and opening it up to other EVs is a game-changer. Plus, there's less confusion about which plug to use. Of course, there are always some concerns about compatibility and whether older cars will be left behind, but overall, the sentiment is positive. People are excited about the potential for easier and more reliable charging. It will be interesting to see how the electric Range Rover performs with the new charging standard.

Regulatory Considerations

Regulatory bodies are also keeping a close eye on the NACS adoption. There are questions about standardization and whether NACS will become the official standard across the board. It's not just about the connector itself, but also about the charging protocols and safety standards. The government wants to make sure that everyone has fair access to charging infrastructure, and that the transition to EVs is smooth and equitable. It's a complex issue, but the fact that regulators are involved shows how important this is for the future of electric vehicles. Even if the Slate EV doesn't adopt NACS, the regulatory landscape will still impact its market position.

The shift to NACS isn't just a technical change; it's a strategic one. Automakers are realizing that a unified charging standard is essential for widespread EV adoption. It simplifies things for consumers, reduces range anxiety, and ultimately makes electric cars more appealing. The industry is moving towards a future where charging is as easy as filling up a gas tank, and NACS is a big step in that direction.

Future of EV Charging with NACS

Predictions for Charging Networks

The shift to NACS is more than just a connector change; it's a reshaping of the entire EV charging landscape. We're likely to see a surge in the number of charging stations, especially in areas that were previously underserved. Existing charging networks will need to adapt quickly, either by retrofitting their stations with NACS connectors or by offering adapters. This could lead to some growing pains, but ultimately, it should result in a more robust and accessible charging infrastructure for everyone. I think we'll see partnerships between automakers and charging providers become even more common, with companies working together to ensure a smooth transition and a consistent charging experience.

Technological Innovations

NACS adoption could spur innovation in charging technology. We might see faster charging speeds, more efficient energy transfer, and smarter charging algorithms. Imagine a future where your car automatically optimizes its charging schedule based on grid load and electricity prices. That's the kind of thing that becomes possible with a standardized connector and a more integrated charging ecosystem. Plus, there's the potential for bidirectional charging to become more widespread, allowing EVs to not only draw power from the grid but also send it back, helping to stabilize the grid and reduce energy costs. The 2026 Kia EV4 is a great example of how technology is advancing in this space.

Global Adoption Trends

While NACS is currently focused on North America, its success could influence charging standards in other parts of the world. If NACS proves to be more reliable, cost-effective, and user-friendly than existing standards like CCS, other countries might consider adopting it as well. This could lead to a more unified global charging ecosystem, making it easier for EV owners to travel internationally. Of course, there are political and economic factors that could complicate things, but the potential for global harmonization is definitely there. The Subaru's EV lineup is expanding, and global standards will be important for their success.

The future of EV charging is looking bright, but there are still challenges to overcome. We need to ensure that the transition to NACS is equitable and that everyone has access to reliable and affordable charging. We also need to continue investing in research and development to improve charging technology and make EVs even more convenient and practical for everyday use. The Solterra NACS adoption is a step in the right direction.

NACS and the Evolution of Electric Vehicles

Historical Context of Charging Standards

Remember those days of VHS vs. Betamax? The EV charging world had its own version of that for a while. We had CHAdeMO, CCS, and Tesla's connector all vying for dominance. It was a mess for consumers, trying to figure out which charger worked with their car. Now, with NACS gaining traction, it feels like we're finally moving toward a more unified system. It's not just about the connector itself, but also about the underlying communication protocols and safety standards. This shift is a big deal because it impacts everything from charging speed to the overall user experience. The evolution of charging standards is a reflection of the broader changes in the EV industry, as manufacturers and infrastructure providers work together to create a more convenient and reliable charging experience for drivers. The adoption of Tesla’s NACS is a big step in the right direction.

Impact on EV Adoption Rates

The easier it is to charge an EV, the more people will buy them. It's a pretty simple equation. The fragmented charging landscape has been a barrier to entry for many potential EV buyers. Imagine being on a road trip and constantly worrying about whether you'll be able to find a compatible charger. NACS helps alleviate that anxiety by creating a more standardized and accessible charging network. Plus, with more chargers available, range anxiety becomes less of a concern. This increased convenience and reliability can significantly boost EV adoption rates, as more consumers feel confident making the switch from gasoline-powered cars. The upcoming Subaru's EV Lineup will benefit from this.

Long-Term Industry Changes

NACS isn't just about a new connector; it's about reshaping the entire EV ecosystem. Here are some potential long-term changes:

• Increased competition among charging networks: With a standardized connector, charging networks will need to compete on price, reliability, and additional services to attract customers.

• Faster charging speeds: The standardization of charging protocols could pave the way for faster charging speeds, making EVs even more convenient.

• Greater interoperability: NACS could lead to greater interoperability between different EV models and charging networks, creating a more seamless charging experience.

The move towards NACS represents a significant shift in the EV industry, signaling a move towards greater standardization and collaboration. This change has the potential to accelerate EV adoption, improve the charging experience for consumers, and drive innovation in charging technology. It's an exciting time to be involved in the EV space, as we witness the industry evolve and mature.

It's also interesting to think about how this might affect the design of future EVs. Will we see more streamlined charging ports? Will manufacturers focus on improving the efficiency of their charging systems? The Kia EV4's charging door design is a good example of this. Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: NACS is here to stay, and it's going to have a big impact on the future of electric vehicles.

Looking Ahead: The Future of EV Charging

As we wrap up our look at the 2025 New York Auto Show, it's clear that the shift to NACS is gaining serious momentum. With Hyundai, Kia, Subaru, and Lucid stepping up to the plate, EV owners are in for a treat. More charging options mean less range anxiety and more freedom on the road. Sure, there are still some bumps in the road, like the rollout of adapters and the timing of new models, but the overall trend is positive. The future looks bright for electric vehicles, and it’s exciting to think about how this will change the driving experience for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the NACS standard?

The NACS standard is a new type of charging plug for electric vehicles (EVs) that makes it easier for different car brands to use the same charging stations.

Which car brands are adopting NACS?

Hyundai, Kia, Subaru, and Lucid Motors are some of the brands that are now making cars that work with the NACS charging standard.

How will NACS benefit EV owners?

NACS will help EV owners by giving them access to more charging stations and making it easier to charge their cars quickly.

Are there any costs for NACS adapters?

Some car companies, like Hyundai and Kia, are offering free NACS adapters to their customers, while others may charge for them.

What is the difference between NACS and CCS?

NACS and CCS are both types of charging plugs, but NACS is becoming more popular because it works with Tesla's charging network.

How many charging stations will be available with NACS?

With NACS, there will be thousands more charging stations available for EV owners, including Tesla's Supercharger stations.

When will new NACS-compatible cars be available?

New cars that use the NACS standard are expected to start coming out in 2026.

What challenges does NACS face?

Some challenges include making sure there are enough charging stations, helping people understand how to use them, and ensuring older car models can adapt.