EV Charger Manufacturers Oppose Texas Plan to Require Tesla Connectors
A plan in Texas that could require EV charger manufacturers to build chargers with connectors for Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) and the pre-existing Combined Charging Standard (CCS) has faced opposition from several major charging companies. The Texas Department of Transportation recently announced that charging companies would need to add NACS connectors in order to be eligible for a federally-funded program to electrify highways across the state. However, this decision has been met with resistance from industry leaders who argue that more time is needed to standardize and test the Tesla connectors.
In a letter addressed to the Texas Transportation Commission, five major EV charging operators, including ChargePoint Holdings and ABB, expressed their concerns about the rushed implementation of the Texas plan. They emphasized the need for adequate time to properly standardize, test, and certify the safety and interoperability of Tesla connectors across the industry. The letter also highlighted the potential risks to the successful deployment of the first phase of federal funds if the plan moves forward without allowing sufficient time for re-engineering and testing.
The charging companies further explained that various aspects of the NACS connectors would need to be changed to ensure they can withstand different temperature ranges. Additionally, certification for specific parts and an extension of cable length would be necessary. They also emphasized the importance of establishing a strong supply chain for NACS cables and connectors. These changes and considerations are crucial to ensure the safety and reliability of EV charging infrastructure.
Currently, Tesla Superchargers account for approximately 60% of all fast chargers in the United States, according to Reuters. However, industry observers have raised concerns about how NACS and CCS will communicate with each other and whether having both standards will increase costs for vendors and customers. The compatibility and interoperability of different charging standards are essential for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
The opposition from EV charger manufacturers highlights the need for a standardized approach to charging infrastructure. While the Texas plan aims to electrify highways and promote the use of electric vehicles, rushing the implementation without proper standardization and testing could lead to inefficiencies and potential safety risks. It is crucial for industry stakeholders, including charging companies, government agencies, and standardization bodies like SAE International, to collaborate and establish clear guidelines and standards for EV chargers.
The concerns raised by the charging companies have prompted discussions about the Texas plan at the federal level. Some organizations are planning to reach out to the federal government to address their concerns and ensure that the implementation of charging infrastructure aligns with industry standards and best practices. This collaboration between industry leaders and government agencies is essential for creating a sustainable and efficient charging network that supports the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
In conclusion, the opposition from EV charger manufacturers to the Texas plan highlights the need for proper standardization and testing of charging infrastructure. Rushing the implementation without considering industry standards and interoperability could lead to inefficiencies and safety risks. Collaboration between industry stakeholders and government agencies is crucial for establishing clear guidelines and standards for EV chargers. By working together, the industry can create a robust and reliable charging network that supports the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
