Ford EVs to Feature Tesla Charging Compatibility
In the not-too-distant future, brand-new Ford EVs will come from the factory equipped with the same NACS charge ports that Tesla uses. Consequently, they will be able to plug into Tesla chargers, including faster Superchargers and Level 2 destination chargers, without requiring any special adapters. However, it’s important to note that Ford vehicles will need adapters to work with current CCS1 DC fast chargers and similar types. Until these models are fully integrated, Ford has unveiled the Fast Charging adapter that owners of the Mach-E SUV, F-150 Lightning pickup, and eventually the E-Transit van will need to plug into Tesla’s Superchargers. This device opens up access to 15,000 new fast chargers for Ford owners.
Current Mach-E and Lightning owners will receive over-the-air (OTA) updates to enable charging at select Tesla Superchargers nationwide. However, E-Transits will require in-person updates because these electric vans do not support OTAs. Nonetheless, E-Transits will eventually become compatible with Tesla’s DC fast chargers. All three electric Ford models will also require the NACS-to-CCS1 adapter, which, for now, is free for Ford owners (one per car).
Ordering Your Free Adapter
Owners of Ford EVs, along with anyone purchasing a new Ford EV in the coming months, have until June 30, 2024, to order their free adapters. After this date, the adapter will be available for purchase at a retail price of $230. However, specifics on discounts for customers acquiring the adapter alongside a new Ford EV have yet to be clarified. Therefore, it’s crucial to take advantage of the complimentary offering before the deadline.
Compatibility and Functionality of the Adapter
The adapter itself possesses no communications technology onboard, allowing it to be utilized with non-Ford products, provided those vehicles support CCS1 ports and are software-compatible with Tesla’s Superchargers. This feature enables customers who drive non-Ford vehicles, which Tesla has opened its Supercharger network to, to benefit from this adapter. For Ford vehicles, the adapter does not limit charge speeds; it is rated at 1,000 volts DC and 300 amps regularly, with a boost current of up to 500 amps for short bursts. Furthermore, a built-in temperature sensor can throttle charging speeds or interrupt the process, ensuring the safety of the hardware during use.
Usage Considerations
It’s essential for potential adapter users to understand that the device is exclusively designed for Tesla’s Superchargers. Therefore, it will not function with Level 2 destination or home chargers and is specifically crafted for DC fast charging. It’s important to note that not every Tesla Supercharger is compatible; older V2 models and non-upgraded V3 versions will not work. Consequently, Ford owners should be prepared to verify the eligibility of Superchargers as the automaker is still working to integrate compatible locations with navigation systems’ EV route planning features. This enhanced functionality will be available soon.
Lastly, Ford will not begin shipping the adapters until later in March, meaning there is ample time for customers to familiarize themselves with Tesla’s Supercharger stations in advance of receiving the necessary hardware. When users finally receive their adapters, the charging process at Superchargers will be seamless, with no requirement to download the Tesla app. The Superchargers have effectively become part of Ford’s “Blue Oval” charge network, allowing for a simplified Plug and Charge single-payment setup. This means that users can enjoy the convenience of one payment method for public charging. With Tesla’s Superchargers included, Ford’s Blue Oval network will encompass over 126,000 chargers at approximately 35,000 locations, 28,000 of which are DC fast chargers located at 7,500 sites.
