CCS vs. Tesla's NACS: A Comparison

author: FutureCar Staff    

There are two common DC plug standards for fast charging electric vehicles (EVs) in North America: CCS and Tesla's NACS. The CCS standard adds fast-charging pins to the SAE J1772 AC connector, while Tesla's NACS is a two-pin plug that supports both AC and DC fast charging.

CCS connectors can deliver higher current and voltage, but Tesla's NACS is slightly better designed with smaller, lighter plugs and a more reliable charging network. Ultimately, the market will determine which standard becomes dominant.

Most non-Tesla EVs in North America use the CCS standard, while Tesla vehicles come with the NACS port, granting access to Tesla's Supercharger network.

The CCS standard in North America is designed differently from the CCS connector in Europe. North America uses CCS1, which is based on the Type 1 connector, while Europe uses CCS2, based on the Type 2 connector.

Tesla's NACS plug in North America supports up to 250 kW of power and can add 200 miles of range in 15 minutes at a V3 Supercharger station. Only Tesla vehicles currently come with the NACS port, but other automakers will start selling NACS-equipped EVs in 2025.

When comparing NACS and CCS, several criteria come into play. In terms of design, NACS plugs are smaller, lighter, and more compact, with a button on the handle to open the charging port latch. CCS connectors often have long, thick, and heavy cables.

In terms of ease of use, CCS cables are longer to accommodate different charging port locations in various EVs, while NACS cables are shorter and thinner due to the consistent placement of NACS ports in Tesla vehicles. Tesla's Supercharger network is considered more reliable and extensive than other charging networks.

In terms of charging speed, CCS connectors can technically deliver more power, but the actual charging speed is limited by the EV's maximum input power. NACS plugs have a maximum output voltage of 500 volts, while CCS connectors can deliver up to 1,000 volts.

Both NACS and CCS connectors can fast-charge EVs from 0% to 80% in less than 30 minutes. NACS is slightly better designed, and Tesla's Supercharger network is more reliable. However, CCS connectors can deliver higher current and voltage. The introduction of V4 Superchargers may change the landscape in the future.

For EVs with bidirectional charging technology, CCS connectors are currently the only option, except for the Nissan Leaf, which uses a CHAdeMO connector. Tesla plans to add bidirectional charging capability to its vehicles by 2025.

The market will ultimately decide which EV charging connector becomes the dominant standard. Tesla's NACS is expected to emerge on top due to its popularity in the US and support from major automakers.

FutureCar Staff