Tesla Supercharging for EV Supports Ford Electric Vehicle Users

Mar 01, 2024 02:45 AM EST

TWO WHITE AND RED TESLA CHARGING STATION — (Photo : PEXELS/Chad Russell)

Ford electric vehicle owners across the U.S. and Canada can now access a significant portion of Tesla's charging infrastructure, albeit with a small caveat. To utilize this network, they will require an adapter provided by Ford, which is slated to be distributed by the end of March. In a pioneering move last May, Ford secured an agreement with Tesla, based in Austin, Texas, to tap into its extensive and strategically positioned charging network. This marks Ford Motor's rollout of Tesla Supercharging capabilities for its electric vehicle clientele in North America.

Tesla Supercharging Available to Ford Electric Vehicle Users

Until June 30, existing Ford EV proprietors have the opportunity to secure a complimentary charging adapter, after which it will be obtainable for $230. The adapter serves as the essential link between non-Tesla vehicles and Tesla's distinct charging technology, facilitating seamless access to the revered charging network.

According to arsTechnica, Ford electric vehicles have indeed gained access to the Tesla Supercharger network. Last May, Ford made history as the first automaker to align with what was then recognized as the North American Charging Standard, now referred to as J3400.

This pivotal move by Ford set off a chain reaction, and with Stellantis' recent commitment to adopt J3400, the more compact DC fast-charging plug is poised to become the prevailing standard in the coming years.

Prior to Ford's transition, all non-Tesla electric vehicles in North America had standardized on the Combined Charging Standard 1 plug, except for the Nissan Leaf, which continues to utilize CHAdeMO. Both CCS1 and J3400 employ identical electronic communication protocols, differing only in the physical plug and socket configuration.

Adapter Needed

According to a report by CNBC, the current requirement for non-Tesla vehicles with distinct charging technology to link up with Tesla's network is an adapter. Ford anticipates that this collaboration will significantly expand fast charger accessibility for its customers, although the distribution of adapters to all owners may require some time.

During a media briefing, Ford's director of charging and energy services, Ken Williams, acknowledged the constraints in the supply chain as the company progresses. He expressed confidence that the initial phase of the launch will witness a surge in demand surpassing the available supply, emphasizing their commitment to managing this demand on a first-come, first-served basis.

Regarding the quantity of adapters available for Ford's EV customers in the U.S., Williams refrained from disclosing specific numbers. The company disclosed that the shipping of adapters to customers is slated to commence toward the end of March.

Tesla, responsible for the design and distribution of the adapters to automakers, did not provide a response to requests for details.

Ford has announced that current Ford F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E customers have the opportunity to secure a complimentary charging adapter through Ford's owner app or at Ford.com/FastChargingAdapter until June 30. After this deadline, the adapters will be available for purchase at $230 each.

Upon visiting the website, customers are required to log in or register for Ford's "BlueOval Charge Network" via its FordPass App in order to reserve an adapter. Customers who are not yet enrolled in the BlueOval Charge Network will be guided through the enrollment process before being able to place their order for the fast-charging adapter.

The distribution of adapters will be based on reservations, and some customers may encounter an unspecified wait period depending on the timing of their registration.