Tesla is making significant strides in expanding access to its Supercharger network, not just for Tesla owners but for all EV users. One of its most recent ventures in this direction is the Non-Tesla Supercharger Pilot program. The program has gained momentum globally and has now expanded to New Zealand, marking a significant step in making EV charging more accessible and convenient for all electric vehicle owners in the country.
Opening Up Supercharging Stations to All EVs in New Zealand
New Zealand has become the latest market to join Tesla’s Non-Tesla Supercharger Pilot program. This initiative opens up Tesla’s Supercharging stations to all EVs, provided they are compatible with the locally used CCS2 charging connector, which Tesla vehicles also employ. As of now, six Supercharging sites in New Zealand are accessible to all EV users, accounting for approximately a third of all Supercharging stations in the country. This expansion follows a similar move in Australia earlier in 2023, where over 30 locations were made available to all EVs, marking more than half of Tesla’s charging sites in the country.
Expansion in the United States and National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program
The United States, a key market for Tesla, has also witnessed the expansion of the Non-Tesla Supercharger Pilot program. Tesla introduced Magic Dock built-in CCS1 adapters in several new states, significantly increasing the number of Supercharger stations supporting non-Tesla electric vehicles. This move aligns with broader goals in the United States, as compatibility with the CCS1 charging connector is now a requirement for public funding approval under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program (NEVI). This requirement is expected to drive further expansion of the program across the country.
The Future of Supercharger Program: North American Charging Standard
Looking ahead, the focus of the Supercharger program is set to shift as Tesla develops the North American Charging Standard (NACS), which other EV manufacturers in North America will begin adopting in 2025. This shift will simplify non-Tesla EV charging, eliminating the need for adapters and creating a more streamlined experience similar to that in Europe.
Expanding Access to Supercharger Network Worldwide
Currently, the Non-Tesla Supercharger Pilot program spans over 20 countries, including North America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific. It’s a testament to Tesla’s commitment to promoting EV adoption beyond its brand, making EV charging more accessible and versatile for a wider range of users.
