Summary
– Rivian has announced that its Adventure Network of DC fast chargers will be opened to other EVs later this year
– The new Rivian charger can charge both 400- and 800-volt EVs and features CCS connectors with no native NACS support
– Rivian plans to include native NACS support to its chargers by 2025
– The new chargers will initially only feature CCS connectors, with NACS-equipped EVs needing a Rivian-approved adapter
– Rivian aims to increase its charging locations to 600 with 3,500 charging stalls and become eligible for national and federal charging network subsidies like Tesla.
Article
Rivian has announced that its Adventure Network of DC fast chargers, originally only accessible to Rivian vehicles, will soon be opened to other EVs as well. The company has unveiled a new EV charger design that is compatible with both Rivians and other EVs, as long as they have a CCS port. While Rivian is currently transitioning away from CCS to the North American Charging Standard (NACS) in its vehicles by 2025, it plans to eventually add native NACS support to its chargers. This move aligns with Rivian’s goal to provide accessible charging options for a variety of electric vehicles on the market.
Rivian’s access to the Tesla Supercharger network sets it apart from other EV brands. Even with the introduction of new chargers designed for their charging network, Rivian remains focused on releasing new models, such as the R2, in a timely manner. The new chargers will initially feature CCS connectors, with NACS-equipped EVs requiring a Rivian-approved adapter for charging. With a sleek and minimalist design, larger display, and tap-to-pay terminal for improved usability, the new chargers are adaptable for both 400- and 800-volt EVs. Additionally, these chargers will be strategically placed in trailer-friendly locations where space permits.
As part of its expansion plans, Rivian intends to build new charging stations in various locations while also upgrading existing sites with the new chargers. With 67 locations and 400 DC fast chargers in place as of February 2024, Rivian aims to increase this number to 600 locations and 3,500 charging stalls. By following in Tesla’s footsteps and opening its EV charging network to other electric vehicles, Rivian will become eligible for national and federal charging network subsidies. Although Rivian has access to the Tesla Supercharger network, enhancing its own charging infrastructure aligns with its commitment to providing convenient and reliable charging options for EV owners.
The new Rivian charger design marks a significant step towards inclusivity within the EV charging ecosystem. By accommodating both Rivian vehicles and other EVs with CCS ports, Rivian showcases its commitment to supporting the broader electrification movement. While the transition to the North American Charging Standard presents a future update for Rivian’s chargers, the company’s current priority remains on introducing new models like the R2 to the market. With plans to increase the number of charging locations and stalls in its network, Rivian is poised to play a key role in shaping the future of EV charging infrastructure.
Incorporating cutting-edge technology and user-friendly features, such as tap-to-pay terminals and trailer-friendly locations, the new Rivian chargers offer a seamless charging experience for EV owners. As Rivian looks to expand its charging network, it also aims to tap into incentive programs designed to support the growth of EV charging infrastructure. By leveraging its access to the Tesla Supercharger network and embracing industry standards like CCS and NACS, Rivian continues to position itself as a leader in the EV market. As the company works towards its goal of increasing charging locations and stalls across the country, Rivian remains dedicated to providing a reliable and accessible charging solution for drivers of electric vehicles.
Read the full article here
