Electric vehicle (EV) charging should be straightforward. Nissan now offers Ariya owners a North American Charging Standard (NACS) adapter kit, enhancing charging flexibility. This kit grants access to over 20,000 Tesla Superchargers, supplementing the existing network of more than 100,000 public chargers across the U.S.
Understanding the NACS Adapter Kit
What is the NACS Adapter Kit?
The NACS adapter kit enables the Ariya's Combined Charging System (CCS1) to connect with NACS DC fast chargers. It includes a CCS1 plug and a NACS attachment, facilitating connections to an expanding number of NACS chargers.
How to Use the Adapter Kit
Using the adapter is straightforward. However, the Nissan Ariya requires an additional step: inserting a small plastic piece into the car's CCS port before attaching the adapter. This unique requirement addresses a specific design aspect of the Ariya's charging port. Once the plastic insert is in place, connect the NACS adapter to the CCS1 port, then plug into the NACS charger.
Cost of the Adapter Kit
The Nissan-approved NACS adapter kit is priced at $235 USD. It can be purchased through Nissan dealers or online at NissanUSA.com.
Benefits of the NACS Adapter Kit
Expanded Charging Options
With the NACS adapter kit, Ariya drivers gain access to over 20,000 Tesla Superchargers. This expansion simplifies charging and enhances convenience.
Compatibility with Tesla Superchargers
The Ariya is compatible with Tesla Supercharger V3 and V4 models. Drivers can locate compatible stations using the MyNISSAN app, which provides real-time charger availability and location details.
Maintaining Charging Speeds
The Nissan-approved NACS adapter kit is designed to deliver charging speeds comparable to the Ariya's native CCS1 port, ensuring efficient charging sessions.
Future-Proofing Your EV Experience
Transition to Native NACS Ports
Starting this year, Nissan plans to equip future EVs in the U.S. and Canada with native NACS ports, eliminating the need for an adapter kit to access Tesla Superchargers.
Adapter Usage at Non-Tesla Chargers
While many non-Tesla fast chargers currently use CCS1, the industry is gradually transitioning to NACS. During this period, the NACS adapter kit will be useful at an increasing number of charging locations.
Advisory on Third-Party Adapters
Nissan advises using only the adapter kit provided by Nissan or purchased from a U.S. Nissan dealership or parts.nissanusa.com. This ensures compatibility and compliance with Tesla's Supercharger network terms of use. Using unapproved adapters may damage your vehicle and violate network policies.
Enhancing Your Charging Experience
NISSAN ENERGY Charge Network
The NISSAN ENERGY Charge Network offers a streamlined system to locate and activate compatible chargers via the MyNISSAN app. This network includes over 90,000 fast chargers from partners like Electrify America, Shell Recharge, ChargePoint, and EVgo. Starting in November, Ariya owners can initiate and pay for charging sessions with one tap using the MyNISSAN app.
MyNISSAN App Features
The MyNISSAN app provides real-time information on charger availability and locations, helping drivers plan their routes and charging stops efficiently. The app also facilitates seamless payment processing for charging sessions.