Tesla Superchargers are tempting to any EV driver, there’s no denying it.
Offering recharging from 10-80% in as little as half an hour for some models, it’s easy to see why they are so popular with drivers of the Tesla brand.
But can non-Tesla cars use Superchargers or do you need to choose a Tesla at the dealership to access super-fast charging?
Who can use Tesla Superchargers?
At the moment, there are three types of Tesla Superchargers, two of which allow charging capabilities for different EVs.
These include:
Tesla-Only Superchargers
These only work for Tesla vehicles.
Tesla Superchargers for all EVs
Any EVs can recharge using the Magic Dock adapter provided at specific charging points.
This Magic Dock allows for the adaptation of the Tesla NACS connector to a J1772/CCS1 combo connector that all EVs have if they don’t have the NACS one.
If you don’t drive a Tesla, this will be the easiest option if you are looking for supercharging capabilities. Alternatively, you can go to a supercharger from other brands such as EVgo, Electrify America, or ChargePoint, as they also offer superfast chargers with the J1772/CCS1 combo.
Explore their apps to find locations, and check availability and charging speeds offered near you.
NACS Superchargers
Moving forward, many electric car manufacturers will switch to NACS connectors, allowing non-Tesla vehicles to access Tesla charging stations.
This has been adopted early by some 2024 models from manufacturers Ford and Rivian, with most EV manufacturers expected to follow suit between 2024-2026.
William McBride, October 2024. – A common question for homeowners once they have bought their electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid vehicles.
The most important considerations for EV charger installations in Orange County are linked to location, home age, panel condition and the EV charger.
EV Charger type
We have sold hundreds of EV chargers in Orange County, starting in 2020. When we were first involved in the industry, the average EV charger would cost around $800. Hardwired EV chargers that are UL certified and incorporate strong app enabled software, are around $600. Plug-in EV chargers are less sophisticated and will generally be around $350. High power 48- or 40-amp level 2 EV chargers will of course be more expensive than lower power EV chargers. Here is a link to our sister company with examples of a hardwired EV charger.
Installation location
A big predictor of the charger installation costs, especially for larger Orange County homes, is the location of the EV charger in relation to where the car is parked. The longer the distance of the EV charger (the spot where the charger is mounted to the wall), the more expensive the installation will be, this is due to the extra labor, copper and other materials. There will also be more extensive patching and repairs to drywall
Installation Complexity
The cost increases if the installation requires multiple days of work, involves a new panel or panel upgrades. This can happen when there are no available breaker slots on the electrical panel, which can involve more work to free up a power line
What cars can use Tesla Superchargers?
Up to now, only Ford and Rivian models have made the switch to the NACS connector.
However, between now and 2026, almost all manufacturers are set to make the change, including:
- Nissan
- Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis
- Polestar
- VW
- GM
- BMW
- Lucid Motors
- Stellantis
For more information on the NACS switchover, why not browse our blogs on the topic?
What does NACS stand for?
NACS EV charging and NACS charging solutions
How to use Tesla Supercharger for non-Tesla vehicles
Unless you buy a brand-new model (2024-25) from any of the brands that have indicated that they intend to switch, you will need to:
Use a Tesla Supercharger that has a Magic Dock
Tesla Superchargers with Magic Docks are easy to find on different charging apps, so you can check availability before you arrive for extra convenience.
You should be aware, however, that some EV owners have experienced slight issues parking close enough to the Supercharger, as it is oriented for Tesla use – when the inlet is found on the rear left-hand side. You may need to alter how you normally park to ensure the cable reaches comfortably.
Not all Tesla Superchargers have Magic Docks, either. so it is well worth checking on your favorite charging app for your nearest one before you set off!
Use an adapter sent from your manufacturer
If you have a Ford or Rivian, the manufacturer is pre-emptively sending adapters to customers who have registered.
Due to the popularity of registration – thanks to the benefits of superfast charging – there are delays with the dispatch of adapters, so it may take a little time before you receive yours if you are registered.
If you have not registered your interest, you will not automatically receive one, so be sure to request an adapter if you would like one.
Purchase a Magic Dock from a trusted manufacturer
You can get a J1772/CCS1 adapter, but those are only suited to work on level 2 NACS charging stations to convert to the J1772/CCS1 combo from all the other cars (except Tesla’s) so you’ll need a “Magic Dock” made for supercharging if that’s what you are after.
Whether you are looking for adapters for Tesla chargers or level 2 chargers, be sure to choose a supplier that offers bespoke advice and a one-year warranty on all EV charging products.
That way, you can be sure your NACS adapter will offer the protection you need while also accessing super-fast charging while out and about.
William McBride, October 2024. – A common question for homeowners once they have bought their electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid vehicles.
The most important considerations for EV charger installations in Orange County are linked to location, home age, panel condition and the EV charger.
EV Charger type
We have sold hundreds of EV chargers in Orange County, starting in 2020. When we were first involved in the industry, the average EV charger would cost around $800. Hardwired EV chargers that are UL certified and incorporate strong app enabled software, are around $600. Plug-in EV chargers are less sophisticated and will generally be around $350. High power 48- or 40-amp level 2 EV chargers will of course be more expensive than lower power EV chargers. Here is a link to our sister company with examples of a hardwired EV charger.
Installation location
A big predictor of the charger installation costs, especially for larger Orange County homes, is the location of the EV charger in relation to where the car is parked. The longer the distance of the EV charger (the spot where the charger is mounted to the wall), the more expensive the installation will be, this is due to the extra labor, copper and other materials. There will also be more extensive patching and repairs to drywall
Installation Complexity
The cost increases if the installation requires multiple days of work, involves a new panel or panel upgrades. This can happen when there are no available breaker slots on the electrical panel, which can involve more work to free up a power line
How does Tesla Supercharger charge you?
Alongside the introduction of Magic Docks, Tesla is also allowing access to their app for non-Tesla users – to make the process more streamlined.
This includes downloading the Tesla app (if you don’t have it already), creating an account, and adding your preferred payment option.
Each Supercharger has a unique identifier on the base, so make sure the Supercharger you have selected on the app matches the cable you are connecting or you won’t be able to charge.
EV-Chargers.com can help you access Tesla Superchargers
Using our expertise and passion for EV adoption, EV-Chargers offer safe, portable EV chargers with built-in ground fault detection and at least a one-year warranty.
So, if you would like the option of super-fast charging or just want to get ahead of the NACS switchover rush, our team can help.
To get in touch, email us at [email protected] or speak to us via our webchat by clicking the icon at the side of your screen.
William McBride, October 2024. – A common question for homeowners once they have bought their electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid vehicles.
The most important considerations for EV charger installations in Orange County are linked to location, home age, panel condition and the EV charger.
EV Charger type
We have sold hundreds of EV chargers in Orange County, starting in 2020. When we were first involved in the industry, the average EV charger would cost around $800. Hardwired EV chargers that are UL certified and incorporate strong app enabled software, are around $600. Plug-in EV chargers are less sophisticated and will generally be around $350. High power 48- or 40-amp level 2 EV chargers will of course be more expensive than lower power EV chargers. Here is a link to our sister company with examples of a hardwired EV charger.
Installation location
A big predictor of the charger installation costs, especially for larger Orange County homes, is the location of the EV charger in relation to where the car is parked. The longer the distance of the EV charger (the spot where the charger is mounted to the wall), the more expensive the installation will be, this is due to the extra labor, copper and other materials. There will also be more extensive patching and repairs to drywall
Installation Complexity
The cost increases if the installation requires multiple days of work, involves a new panel or panel upgrades. This can happen when there are no available breaker slots on the electrical panel, which can involve more work to free up a power line
