Why This New Tesla Adapter Does—and Doesn’t—Fix EV Charging | WSJ

The Wall Street Journal
6 Mar 202405:46

Summary

TLDRThe video explores the new adapter that enables non-Tesla electric vehicles (EVs) to charge at Tesla Supercharger stations in the US and Canada. The adapter's setup, compatibility issues, and charging speed are tested with a Ford Mustang Mach-E. Despite some parking and software glitches, the adapter offers a significant advantage in charging speed and network accessibility, albeit at a higher cost without a Tesla subscription. The video highlights the potential of this adapter as a 'big leap' for EV charging inclusivity.

Takeaways

  • 🔌 The adapter allows non-Tesla EVs to charge at Tesla Superchargers, addressing a significant challenge in the EV industry.
  • 🛠️ The adapter is somewhat difficult to remove and has durability issues, as evidenced by plastic breaking off when dropped.
  • 🚗 The Ford Mustang Mach-E and other EVs from manufacturers like GM and Hyundai will gain access to over 15,000 Tesla Supercharger stalls in the US and Canada.
  • 🔋 The 1.6-pound adapter enables the Tesla North American Charging Standard (NACS) plug to fit into a non-Tesla CCS port, with a simple plug-and-charge setup.
  • 🔄 A software update to the vehicle and setting up payment information in the FordPass app are required steps before using the adapter.
  • 🆓 Adapters are free until the end of June 2024, after which they will be available for purchase at a cost of $230.
  • 📍 Parking and spot usage can be problematic due to the design of Supercharger stations and the location of charging ports on non-Tesla EVs.
  • 🚫 Not all Superchargers are compatible with non-Tesla EVs; only V3 and newer stations with updated software will work.
  • 📱 The Ford Charge Assist dashboard app intended to help navigate to compatible chargers is described as slow and buggy.
  • ⏱️ Charging speeds at Tesla Superchargers are competitive, but non-Tesla EVs may experience higher rates unless a subscription is purchased.
  • 🌐 Despite initial concerns, Tesla owners did not express resentment towards non-Tesla EVs using the Superchargers, emphasizing inclusivity in EV charging.

Q & A

  • What is the adapter mentioned in the script designed to do?

    -The adapter is designed to enable non-Tesla electric vehicles (EVs) to charge at Tesla Supercharger stations, solving a significant issue in the EV industry regarding charging compatibility.

  • What issue did the user encounter when trying to remove the adapter?

    -The user found it difficult to remove the adapter and mentioned that when they dropped the dongle, plastic came off, indicating a potential durability issue with the adapter.

  • Which vehicles are initially able to use Tesla Superchargers with the adapter?

    -The Ford Mustang Mach-E and EVs from other manufacturers like GM and Hyundai will be able to use the Tesla Superchargers with the help of the adapter.

  • What is the user's experience with the charging setup at Tesla Superchargers?

    -The user found the setup process to be easy, involving a software update to their car and setting up payment information in the FordPass app.

  • How does the physical design of Tesla Superchargers and the Mach-E affect charging?

    -The physical design of the Tesla Superchargers and the Mach-E's charging port location can lead to parking issues, as the user had to park in a way that could block access to other chargers.

  • What is Ford's response to the issue of charging port location on their EVs?

    -Ford's CEO, Jim Farley, stated that they are committing to the standard and like the Supercharger solution technically, implying that they may consider moving the port location in future EV models.

  • Are all Tesla Superchargers compatible with non-Tesla EVs using the adapter?

    -No, only V3 and newer Superchargers that have been updated with the right software are compatible with non-Tesla EVs using the adapter.

  • What is the user's experience with the speed of charging at a Tesla Supercharger compared to an EVgo station?

    -The user found that charging their Mach-E from 20% to 80% at a Tesla Supercharger took 36 minutes and cost $25.20, which is slightly faster and cheaper than at an EVgo station.

  • How can non-Tesla EV owners find Superchargers that support their vehicles?

    -Non-Tesla EV owners can use Tesla's smartphone app to find Ford supported Superchargers and then input the address into their in-car navigation system.

  • What is the cost difference between charging a non-Tesla EV and a Tesla at a Supercharger?

    -Non-Tesla EV owners pay higher rates at Superchargers, but they can get the same price as Tesla owners by subscribing to a $13 per month Supercharger subscription.

  • What is the user's overall impression of the adapter and Tesla's charging network?

    -Despite some issues with parking and compatibility, the user considers the adapter a good deal and appreciates the speed, breadth, and ease of use of Tesla's charging network.

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EV ChargingTesla AdapterFord MustangSupercharger AccessCharging SpeedEV IndustryInnovation TestNew JerseyEVgo ComparisonCharging Cost
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