EVgo has announced plans to deploy North American Charging Standard (NACS) connectors on its DC fast charging network in North America. This move is aimed at serving both CCS and NACS electric vehicles, with a focus on markets with high NACS vehicle penetration, particularly areas with a significant number of Tesla drivers.
The deployment of NACS connectors is part of EVgo’s strategy to maximize charger utilization. The company reported a significant increase in overall utilization on its network in Q1 2024, reaching approximately 19%, up from approximately 9% year-over-year.
Badar Khan, CEO of EVgo, highlighted the company’s commitment to expanding fast charging infrastructure, stating, “EVgo had previously identified more than 100,000 potential stalls with strategic site host partners, and with recent industry changes, we welcome further dialogue with our current and potential partners on how we can collaborate to deploy more fast charging infrastructure in convenient locations for drivers.”
EVgo’s plug-and-charge feature, Autocharge+, will be available to both Tesla and future non-Tesla NACS EVs. This feature is compatible with over 50 EV models, including all Teslas that are compatible with the Tesla-made CCS adapter.
The NACS roll-out by EVgo will be unique due to the network’s high proliferation of high-power 350kW chargers that require liquid-cooled cable technology. Currently, nearly 40% of EVgo’s stalls are powered by a 350kW charger, almost double the percentage from a year ago.
