Hyundai is finally shaking hands with Tesla to use its North America Charging Standard (NACS). Scheduled to kick off in the US in late 2024, with Canada following suit in 2025, this move could change the electric vehicle (EV) charging game.

The company is also collaborating with Ford, GM and Honda for the future

What’s the big deal? Hyundai’s EVs, including the much-anticipated Ioniq series, will now gain access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network. With over 12,000 Superchargers across North America, Hyundai is effectively doubling its DC fast-charging options for its customers. José Muñoz, CEO of Hyundai Motor North America, believes this collaboration will make life easier for Hyundai EV owners, promising access to a whopping 30,000 stations across the continent.

Hyundai

But Hyundai isn’t putting all its eggs in Tesla’s basket. Alongside this partnership, the Korean automaker is also collaborating with big players like BMW, GM, Honda, and Mercedes to cook up a separate North American network of at least 30,000 chargers. The first US installations of these chargers are expected to be up and running by summer 2024.

Why does this matter? Fast charging has been a sticking point for people considering switching to electric cars. Until now, Tesla led the charge (pun intended) in offering a robust fast-charging network. Hyundai, despite recently leaping over GM in U.S. EV sales, has always been in Tesla’s rearview mirror. This strategic alliance levels the playing field somewhat and could encourage more consumers to opt for a Hyundai EV.

While Hyundai’s collaboration with Tesla is a huge win for accessibility, it also marks a subtle shift in the auto industry. Tesla’s Supercharger network is no longer an exclusive club; it’s becoming an industry standard. The list of automakers signing up for Tesla’s network is growing, and it’s not just Hyundai. Ford, GM, Honda, and several others have also jumped on the bandwagon.

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