Rivian to Utilize Tesla Superchargers with Adapters and Adopt Tesla's Charging Port Standard

2023

Starting from spring 2024, Rivian customers will be able to use 12,000 Tesla Superchargers with adapters in the United States and Canada. Additionally, Rivian vehicles will have a Tesla-style charging port as a standard feature, beginning in 2025.

Rivian's CEO, RJ Scaringe, explained the decision, saying, "We prefer the Tesla connector, which is more compact, and we also see it as an opportunity to leverage the charging infrastructure that they built."

The move is part of Tesla's recent series of successes. In a single day, Tesla struck deals with BTC Power, which will incorporate Tesla's standard into its electric chargers; Texas, which will require state-backed charging stations to include Tesla's plug; and Hyundai Motor, which is considering making its vehicles more compatible with Tesla's standard.

These partnerships are a significant step in establishing Tesla's charging standard, competing with the Combined Charging System (CCS) that had the backing of President Joe Biden's administration. Tesla's recent agreements allow the company to profit from selling power to a wider group of EV drivers while giving other automakers access to its charging network.

Rivian, known for producing the R1T pickup truck and R1S SUV, also plans to expand its own fast-charging network, with over 3,500 charging stations in the works. Rivian's network will use Tesla's standard plugs, creating an additional revenue stream from Tesla owners using Rivian chargers.

Tesla's Superchargers currently make up about 60% of the total fast chargers available in the United States. This extensive network has been crucial for Tesla owners, and now, the company is taking steps to share it with other electric vehicle manufacturers.

While building charging networks requires significant investment, partnerships like these are becoming more common among EV manufacturers. As competition in the EV market intensifies, companies are recognizing the value of joining forces to offer better charging solutions to customers.

The recent partnerships also have implications for the U.S. government's efforts to promote EV adoption. Tesla's acceptance of the North American Charging Standard (NACS) has made it eligible for federal funding, and the government is providing $7.5 billion to accelerate EV charger deployment in the country.

Rebecca Tinucci, Tesla's senior director of charging infrastructure, commented on the industry's move toward the NACS, saying, "It's great to see the industry coming together to adopt the North American Charging Standard."

In conclusion, Rivian's adoption of Tesla's charging standard is another sign of the growing cooperation among EV manufacturers to improve charging infrastructure and promote EV adoption. Tesla's charging network remains a significant advantage for the company, and its recent deals with other automakers are helping to establish the NACS as the preferred charging standard in North America.