Tesla Unveils $250 Charging Adapter Allowing Access To Third Party Stations In America

Tesla recently added a new product to its website that promises to expand the charging opportunities for its drivers. A new CCS Combo 1 Adapter is now being sold for $250.

The adapter will allow Tesla vehicles to plug into fast charging stations operated by third party companies, like ChargePoint, Volta, and Electrify America. The highly anticipated accessory was first introduced in Korea about a year ago, and appears to have been improved since then.

Whereas the adapter sold in South Korea was limited to 100+ kW peak charging, the adapter being sold on Tesla’s U.S. website says that it can charge at rates of up to 250 kW.

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The automaker cautions, though, that the maximum charge rates may not necessarily reach that level because “most third-party stations are not capable of charging Tesla vehicles at 250kW.” Regardless, if circumstances dictate that the only charging station nearby is a third party station, drivers may be grateful for the adapter no matter how quickly it charges.

It is also important for Tesla owners to note that this adapter is not yet compatible with all models. For now, only the latest Model 3 and Y and the refreshed Model S and X will be able to use it.

“The CCS Combo 1 Adapter is compatible with most newer Tesla vehicles, while some vehicles may require a retrofit to ensure functionality with third-party CCS stations,” says the automaker on its website. “We recommend checking that your vehicle is on the latest available software prior to signing in to your Tesla Account to verify vehicle compatibility.”

As Inside EVs reports, owners can check if their vehicle is compatible with the adapter by looking in the Controls menu, then going into the Software menu, and finally looking at the Additional Vehicle Information menu. If the vehicle says “Enabled” you should be good to go, but if it says “Not Installed” you cannot use it yet. Owners can also check by signing in to their account on the Tesla website CCS Combo 1 Adapter page.

The good news for owners of older Teslas is that they may soon be compatible with the adapter. The company is working on a retrofit, and it suggests that owners check the website in early 2023 for potential availability.