Tesla Supercharger Network Now Available to Rivian Vehicles
Tesla has announced that its Supercharger network is now accessible to Rivian vehicles. This decision comes on the heels of Ford's recent inclusion in the charging network, showcasing Tesla's commitment to fostering EV adoption and collaboration within the industry.
Rivian's integration into the Supercharger network was foreshadowed by the deployment of software update 2024.07.02, which hinted at forthcoming compatibility with Tesla's charging infrastructure. The official confirmation arrived through an announcement on Rivian's platform and a subsequent press release.
According to the release notes, Rivian owners can now avail themselves of Tesla's expansive network, comprising over 15,000 Supercharger stalls across the United States and Canada. To facilitate this transition, Rivian plans to distribute free NACS DC adapters to its long-time owners starting this spring, ensuring seamless access to fast charging capabilities.
Rivian's CEO elaborated on the company's strategy, emphasizing their intention to open the Rivian Adventure Network (RAN) to all automakers later this year, mirroring Tesla's inclusive approach to charging infrastructure. Currently boasting more than 424 operational sites across 70 locations in 22 states, Rivian aims to further expand its charging network to accommodate the growing demand for EVs.
This milestone follows Ford's recent integration into the Supercharger network, marking a significant shift in the landscape of EV charging accessibility. With General Motors (GM), Volvo, and Polestar slated to join in the near future, Tesla's Supercharger network is poised to become even more inclusive, reflecting a broader industry-wide consensus on standardization and collaboration.
Tesla's dominance in the rollout of DC fast-charging stations has been underscored by a recent report from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), reaffirming the company's pivotal role in shaping the future of EV infrastructure in the United States.
Acknowledging concerns about potential congestion at Supercharger stations due to the influx of non-Tesla EVs, Tesla introduced "congestion fees" last November as a proactive measure to manage demand effectively. Additionally, the company aims to address capacity issues by adding new Supercharger stalls at a rapid pace, with plans to increase the count from over 15,000 to approximately 23,000 by February of next year.
