Honda set to Embraces Tesla’s NACS Charging Connector
In an exciting turn of events in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, Honda and Acura have confirmed that their North American vehicle range will incorporate Tesla’s North America Charging Standard (NACS). This strategic move was influenced by General Motors (GM) adoption of this charging standard and Honda’s reliance on GM’s EV platform in the region.
The Momentum Behind NACS
The electric vehicle industry had been anticipating Honda’s announcement regarding NACS. The momentum behind this standard was significant, with GM already revealing plans to implement NACS in its EVs from 2025.
Given that Honda’s upcoming electric vehicles for the North American market, namely, the Prologue and Acura ZDX, are both built on GM’s Ultium platform, it was logical for Honda to align with this standard.
Honda’s CEO Speaks on NACS Adoption
Noriya Kaihara, the President and CEO of American Honda Motor Co. emphasized the significance of NACS, stating:
“It is quite important. We also have to push NACS, as well. It is clear.”
This sentiment was echoed by Shinji Aoyama, Executive Vice President of Honda Motor Co., who added:
“We clearly depend on GM. Once they [switch to NACS], this will follow for ZDX, as well.”
This implies a potential shift to NACS in 2025. However, Honda has yet to announce a partnership with Tesla to use the Supercharger network or procure adapters.
Appreciation for Tesla’s Supercharger Network
Jay Joseph, American Honda’s Vice President of Sustainability and Business Development, commended the Tesla Supercharger network’s maintenance, stating:
“If you look at what’s so great about the Tesla Supercharger network, it’s the maintenance. They stay on top of it, have someone onsite monitoring the equipment, they’re monitoring it electronically and remotely, and they fix it – fast. That’s probably the most important thing.”
While having access to the Supercharger network would certainly benefit Honda EV owners, it’s worth noting that Honda is also part of a consortium of seven auto manufacturers committing to building a new EV charging network in North America.
Therefore, Honda’s adoption of NACS is a strategic move to position itself favorably in the rapidly evolving EV market.
