Rivian Rolls Out NACS Adapters, Delivery Starts Expanding Tesla Supercharger Accessibility

Apr 27, 2024 02:22 AM EDT

ELECTRIC CAR CAR CHARGING STATION — (Photo : PIXABAY/ LeeRosario)

Last month, Rivian secured access to Tesla's Supercharger network. However, non-Tesla vehicles require an adapter to utilize it. Rivian has committed to distributing complimentary NACS adapters to its owners, commencing the distribution process.

Rivian Complimentary NACS Adapters

Electrek reported that Rivian has gained access to Tesla's Supercharger network. However, an adaptor is needed in order to use this network with non-Tesla vehicles. Unlike most EVs equipped with a CCS plug, Tesla's plug, now termed NACS, reflects its open charge standard introduced in 2022.

Third-party adapters have been on the market, yet many automakers transitioning to NACS have pledged to dispatch adapters to their owners upon availability. The design of the Rivian adapter was inadvertently revealed in February, hinting at the company's preparations for integration with the NACS charging standard.

As of now, Supercharger access has been granted to Ford and Rivian, while GM, Polestar, and Volvo are set to follow suit this spring, with more manufacturers to join later. Rivian now emerges as the second automaker in line to distribute adapters.

Reports on rivianforums.com indicate that Rivian owners are receiving emails from the company requesting their shipping addresses. The original poster, along with other forum users, possesses a low VIN number, leading to speculation by Electrek that they may be prioritized, with owners holding higher VINs anticipated to receive their emails shortly.

Last Month: Rivian Starts Offering NACS Adapters

As per a March report by TechCrunch, Rivian customers are now able to request adapters to access Tesla's extensive North American Supercharger network, following Ford as the second automaker to do so. Rivian announced plans to commence shipping adapters to owners, one per VIN, starting in April at no cost, although it remains unclear if fees will be introduced later.

Since Tesla opened its charging technology in late 2022, major automakers have embraced NACS compatibility for upcoming EVs. Adapters act as temporary solutions for EVs relying on the CCS standard. Many automakers plan to integrate Tesla's charging tech into future models.

For example, Rivian's current and next-gen vehicles will feature Tesla charging ports, with the R2 SUV incorporating NACS charging in 2026 and the R3 hatchback at a later date. Rivian has announced that current owners will receive a notification on their vehicle's screen containing a QR code, allowing them to reserve the adapter.

With access to Tesla's Supercharger network, owners gain access to 15,000 new fast chargers. Rivian has also been expanding its own fast-charging infrastructure, known as the Rivian Adventure Network, with 424 chargers operational across 70 stations in 22 states as of Monday.

Other News About Rivian

Rivian reported a $5 billion deficit in the previous year, prompting it to halt construction at the Georgia plant amid a broader decline in electric vehicle sales. Yahoo News shared WSB-TV 2 Atlanta's report. Rivian reiterates its commitment to building a new factory in Georgia, which is anticipated to create 7,500 jobs in the area.

According to Autoevolution, a fire occurred beneath a segment of the assembly line conveyor at Rivian's Normal, Illinois factory. Production was temporarily halted for upgrades in preparation for the R1 refresh production. While no injuries were reported, one individual received treatment for smoke inhalation.

Factory fires are relatively common due to the presence of flammable materials in production processes. Particularly in EV factories, handling Li-ion batteries and other hazardous materials may imply increased risk, although statistical evidence is lacking.

While various factors can trigger fires in automotive plants, the association with Li-ion batteries often comes to mind in the context of EV factory fires.