In May 2023, Ford became the first automaker to announce its support for Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS), aiming to provide its electric vehicle (EV) customers with access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network. Over the subsequent months, other automakers in North America followed suit.
By February 2024, Ford initiated over-the-air software updates to enable Supercharger access for its EVs. Despite initial challenges, including delays and recalls, Ford has now fulfilled all complimentary NACS adapter reservations, delivering to 140,000 U.S. customers.
The adapters, co-developed with Lectron, are rated for up to 500 amps and 1,000 volts, having undergone rigorous testing to ensure durability. Initially, Ford faced production delays with Tesla-manufactured adapters, leading to extended waiting periods for customers. In response, Ford partnered with Lectron to develop an alternative adapter, which began shipping in October 2024.
With the increased availability of adapters, Ford EV drivers have been utilizing Tesla’s Supercharger network more frequently. According to Ford, 20% of charging sessions on its BlueOval Charging Network now occur at Superchargers. The BlueOval network has expanded to over 180,000 chargers at more than 50,000 locations, a 40% increase from early 2024.
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As of today, customers requiring a NACS adapter can purchase one for $200 through Ford’s accessories site. These adapters are compatible with any EV equipped with a CCS port and most chargers featuring an NACS connector. Only Tesla V3 and newer Superchargers support non-Tesla vehicles. EVs lacking software updates for direct Plug&Charge support on Superchargers, such as certain General Motors models, will need to use either the GM or Tesla app for charging sessions.
In a blog post, Ken Williams, Ford’s head of charging and energy services, expressed gratitude to customers, stating, “Every complimentary adapter reserved by our U.S. customers has been shipped. From customer reservation No. 1 in Austin, Texas, to customer reservation No. 139,936 in Waconia, Minnesota, we are truly grateful for those who have charged with us (and patiently waited for us).”
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Additionally, Ford is enhancing its EV services by integrating routing to Superchargers in Apple Maps via CarPlay, aiming to improve the charging experience for its customers.