Summary
- Tesla’s Supercharger network opening to Volkswagen EVs in the coming months
- Volkswagen vehicles expected to gain access to the network in June or July with an official VW adapter
- Tesla has already opened Supercharger access to other EV brands like Ford, Rivian, GM, Volvo, Polestar, and Nissan
- Speculation that Volkswagen could be one of the last automakers to adopt access due to its own charging network with Electrify America
- Partnership between Rivian and Volkswagen on a $5 billion investment for joint venture in EV development, with skepticism from Elon Musk on funding plans
Article
Tesla’s Supercharger network is expanding its access to non-Tesla electric vehicles, with Volkswagen set to gain access in the coming months. While the Superchargers will technically open to Volkswagen vehicles in March, the company does not expect to start shipping NACS adapters to owners until June or July. This move comes after Tesla has already opened its Supercharger network to EVs from Ford, Rivian, General Motors, Volvo, Polestar, and Nissan.
The decision to open up Supercharger access to Volkswagen vehicles comes as a surprise to some, as Volkswagen was speculated to be one of the last automakers to adopt access due to its ownership of the Electrify America charging network and delayed adoption of the NACS charging hardware. The news also raises questions about when vehicles from Volkswagen-owned brands Audi, Porsche, and Scout will gain access to the Supercharger network. This announcement comes shortly after Volkswagen launched the ID.Buzz in the U.S. market.
Last year, Rivian and Volkswagen announced plans for a joint venture with a $5 billion investment from the Germany-based automaker. This partnership is expected to focus on developing EVs together and creating a software platform. However, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has expressed skepticism about how the companies will fund their plans. Despite this, the expansion of Supercharger access to Volkswagen vehicles marks another step towards a more interconnected EV charging infrastructure.
For more information on Tesla’s plans to expand Supercharger access, you can visit their website. While Volkswagen is not yet listed as “coming soon” on the website, the company’s Director of Public Relations, Mark Gillies, has confirmed the timeline for access. This move demonstrates Tesla’s commitment to promoting electric vehicle adoption and creating a more accessible charging infrastructure for all EV drivers.
The opening of Tesla’s Supercharger network to Volkswagen vehicles is part of a larger effort by the automaker to increase accessibility and convenience for all electric vehicle owners. By expanding access to non-Tesla EV brands, Tesla is helping to create a more unified and interconnected charging network that benefits all EV drivers. As the electric vehicle market continues to grow, collaborations and partnerships between automakers will be crucial in driving innovation and sustainability within the industry.
Overall, the decision to open up Tesla’s Supercharger network to Volkswagen vehicles reflects a broader shift towards collaboration and cooperation within the EV industry. By working together to create a more seamless charging experience for all electric vehicle owners, automakers can help accelerate the transition to a more sustainable transportation system. As EV adoption continues to rise, initiatives like this will be key in paving the way for a cleaner and greener future for all.
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