In a significant development for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, the state of Texas has announced that it will mandate state-funded charging stations to be equipped with a connector compatible with Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS). This decision comes as major automakers, including Ford, GM, and Rivian, are shifting towards adopting the NACS and moving away from the Combined Charging System (CCS).
The Texas Department of Transportation informed Reuters that the transition by automakers to the NACS prompted the requirement for EV charging companies to install NACS connectors if they wish to participate in a state program that involves federal funding. However, it is important to note that DC fast chargers will still need to have a CCS connector to be eligible for federal funding through the program.
The US Department of Transportation has allocated up to $7.5 billion in funding for the development of high-speed charging stations along highways. The department previously stated that EV charging companies must include a CCS connector to qualify for the federal funds, and now Texas has added the additional requirement of including a NACS connector. States have the authority to impose additional provisions as long as they comply with federal regulations.
Tesla, with the largest share of EV charging infrastructure in the United States, announced last year its intention to open-source the NACS in an effort to encourage other automakers to adopt it. The company boasts over 21,000 Supercharger points, which account for approximately 60 percent of the nation’s fast-charging stations.
In recent weeks, both GM and Ford have revealed plans to offer NACS adapters to owners of their vehicles, which currently utilize CCS, before fully embracing the NACS standard in future models. Rivian also followed suit by announcing a similar adaptation this week. Leading EV charging companies like ChargePoint and EVgo have expressed interest in exploring the incorporation of NACS into their charging points.
Texas’ decision is expected to influence other states to push EV charging companies to include a NACS connector. According to Reuters, states such as California, Michigan, and Iowa are already reviewing the charging market landscape, while another state is reportedly considering incentives for companies to adopt NACS ports.
The move by Texas marks a significant step in the ongoing development of EV charging infrastructure, facilitating greater compatibility between various EV models and charging networks. With more states likely to follow suit, the industry is moving towards a unified charging standard, promoting convenience and accessibility for EV owners across the country.
