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

Summary

The 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.