Can Any EV Use a Tesla Charger?

Tesla chargers are, by far, the most developed and reliable charging network available for electric vehicles. They are one of the only charging networks with both a high uptime and a user experience that’s consistently rated positively.

But can any EV use a Tesla charger? In this blog, we will answer all of the questions regarding Tesla charger compatibility, including whether or not your EV can use the Tesla Supercharging network.

Understanding Tesla’s Charging Network

As EV adoption continues to grow in Australia, many users are unsure of which chargers their EVs are compatible with. So, let’s simplify it. There are two main types of Tesla EV chargers that we’ll be looking at: Destination Chargers and Superchargers. 

Tesla Destination Chargers

Tesla Destination Chargers provide Level 2 charging using AC power. This slower charging is conveniently located at sites like hotels and restaurants, so you can charge your EV for several hours or even overnight while spending time at the location. 

Tesla Destination Chargers are conveniently open to any EV with a Type 2 connector. However, in order to use one of Tesla’s destination chargers, a driver of an EV from other brands must have:

1. A Type 2 connector (or a Type 1 connector with an adaptor) 
2. Access to the Tesla app on their smartphone, which is available on the Apple or Google Play store.

Tesla Superchargers

Tesla Superchargers quickly charge EVs via high-speed DC fast charging. They are usually found along major routes and motorways.

Originally, Superchargers were only compatible with Tesla models. Today, ‘Magic Dock’ adaptors are pre-fixed to some newer Supercharging stations and allow for other EVs with CCS compatibility to use them as well.

Currently, CCS2-compatible EVs can access a portion of Tesla’s Supercharging network. You will need the Tesla app installed to see which locations accept non-Tesla vehicles.

Can Non-Tesla EVs Use Tesla Chargers?

The short answer is yes. However, that does not mean that ALL electric vehicles can be charged with Tesla chargers. It depends on the type of charger your EV has and the type of Tesla charger. 

There are also geographic limitations set by Tesla itself to limit congestion for its users. The Supercharger network is mainly for Tesla users, but certain locations are open to non-Tesla EVs. 

Which EVs Are Compatible with Destination Chargers?

Most EVs on the market today will be compatible with Destination chargers, as long as they have a Type 2 connector (or Type 1-Type 2 adaptor). Some common brands that have Type 2 connector support include:

• Hyundai
• Kia
• BMW
• MG

What You Need to Use Tesla Superchargers

Select Supercharging stations are now accessible to non-Tesla EV drivers. The Superchargers designated for other EVs have a CCS2 connector, which most modern EVs already use.

You can find out whether a Supercharging station is accessible via the Tesla app. Once you find an eligible station, use the Tesla app to pay and begin charging.

EVs That Can’t Use Tesla Chargers

EVs that are not equipped with CCS charging ports or Type 2 connectors will be excluded from using Tesla Superchargers and Destination chargers, respectively.

In addition to this, there are a few EVs, like the Kia EV6 and Hyundai IONIQ 5, that meet these requirements but reportedly experience issues when using Tesla Superchargers.

CHAdeMO and Non-CCS EVs

There are certain EVs, like the Nissan Leaf and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, that use older CHAdeMO ports that are incompatible with both types of Tesla chargers.

Limitations Around Adapter Use

While CHAdeMO-to-CCS adapters do exist, Tesla does not officially support CHAdeMO-to-CCS adapter use at Superchargers.

Can a Tesla Use Other Public EV Chargers?

We’ve covered EVs using Tesla charging stations, but does it work the other way around? In other words, can a Tesla charge at any EV station?

Yes, Tesla EVs are compatible with third-party public charging networks. Although you may need a CCS adapter for DC chargers, you can supply your own Type 2 cable for AC chargers.

Using CCS2 or Type 2 with Other Brands

Tesla drivers can use either CCS2 DC charging or Type 2 AC charging with other public charging brands, including Evie and Chargefox. Be sure to have the right adapter and understand that charging times may be slower than at Tesla charging stations.

How Charging Standards Are Evolving

Charging standards are steadily improving. With more charging stations being built and more users opting for the convenience of home charging stations, it can be hard to keep up with this rapidly growing industry. 

revcharge is at the forefront of the EV revolution. We provide customers with EV charging solutions, professional home charging installations, and provide information on the latest EV news.

What Is NACS and Why Does It Matter

NACS, or the North American Charging Standard, is a charging connector developed by Tesla and formally designated as SAE J3400 by SAE International. 

It is quickly becoming the de facto charging standard in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Its smaller design combines both AC and DC charging in a single plug and supports high-powered fast-charging.

Will Australia Adopt NACS?

According to an Australian-based blog, Solar Quotes, Australia is unlikely to switch from CCS2 to the NACS connector. Australia already has a near-universal standard, and many houses have 3-phase charging, which CCS2 accepts and NACS doesn't. NACS only has two pins for power delivery, whereas 3-phase charging requires four pins.

If Australia decides to switch in the future, charging stations would have to begin retrofitting their chargers to support NACS, which could be more expensive than beneficial.

Tesla Charger Compatibility at a Glance

The intricacies of EV charging compatibility can be complex and overwhelming. So, in summary:

• EVs with CCS connectors can use select Tesla Superchargers
• EVs with Type 2 connectors can use Tesla’s Destination Chargers 
• You’ll need the Tesla app to access Tesla charging stations
• Tesla EVs are compatible with third-party charging stations
• NACS is unlikely to become the standard in Australia (in the foreseeable future)

Choose the Right Charger for Your EV

Can any EV use Tesla charging stations? As we’ve pointed out, most modern EVs can use Tesla chargers, but it’s not as straightforward as it sounds. If you have any questions regarding public charging compatibility or you’re ready to skip public charging altogether, contact us to get started, and we’ll provide you with a free, no-obligation quote.