In a move aimed at advancing the accessibility of electric vehicle charging infrastructure in North America, established charging solutions provider Blink Charging has announced its plans to integrate the North America Charging Standard (NACS) alongside the Combined Charging System (CCS) across its entire product range.
The move comes as part of a broader industry trend where US electric automakers are increasingly cooperating with Tesla to access its Superchargers network.
As EV-a2z previously reported, five major brands had already announced plans to adopt Tesla’s Supercharging network and NACS connector, including Ford, GM, Rivian, Volvo, and Polestar. Companies like ChargePoint, EVgo, and Flo will also soon integrate NACS into their charging stations. Additionally, hardware manufacturers such as ABB E-Mobility, Tritium, Kempower, and Wallbox have also pledged their support for NACS.
In essence, Blink Charging’s decision will help bridge the gap between various charging standards, potentially leading to a genuinely national EV charging network.
Expansion of NACS integration
Blink Charging recently revealed its first NACS products and is now extending the integration of NACS connectors into all its charging products.
As per the press release, the company will begin production of f NACS DCFC chargers in October 2023. Apart from that, Blink will also integrate NACS into its Level 2 (L2) chargers.
The move is unsurprising, given the L2 chargers’ widespread use and popularity among EV drivers, currently accounting for about 90% of charging usage in the US.
“At the EVS36 Symposium earlier this month, we announced the integration of NACS connectors into our new 240kW DC Fast Charger.”
Brendan Jones, Blink Charging President & CEO
President/CEO Jones further noted that Blink had “diligently advanced” NACS plug integration across its entire portfolio, saying the company aims to “lead, innovate, and adapt as the industry continues its aggressive path towards zero emissions vehicle adoption.”
He also expressed the company’s commitment to supporting all Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) by ensuring NACS chargers meet the needs of EV drivers regardless of brand.
“We have the ability to enhance our product line rapidly, effectively and efficiently to meet the evolving needs of OEMs and EV drivers. Whether it’s a Tesla Model S driver needing to plug into a NACS charger while shopping, or a Chevy Bolt driver seeking a quick charge via a CCS charger during a summer vacation trip, our chargers will be accessible to every kind of driver. We have been working closely with connector manufacturers and vendors to ensure the availability of the equipment to fulfill these commitments.”
Blink Charging Chief Technology Officer Harjinder Bhade
Excitingly, the company expects to launch the new NACS by the beginning of 2024. As mentioned, production will start in October 2023.
“Blink’s engineering team has successfully demonstrated the swift integration of NACS connectors into the Company’s line of L2 chargers, resulting in significant time-to-market savings. The new NACS and 1772 dual units are expected to be released in early 2024 from Blink’s Bowie, MD manufacturing facility.”
Brendan Jones, Blink Charging President & CEO
See Also:
- SAE sets performance standards for Tesla NACS, paving the way for industry standardization
- EVgo to join Tesla NACS growing family
- Electrify America commits to adding Tesla’s NACS connector to its charging network by 2025
- Volvo announces plans to adopt Tesla-developed NACS for its EVs in North America
- Tesla’s NACS connector becomes mandatory for state funding, encouraging adoption by automakers
With the integration of NACS across its charging product line, Blink Charging takes a step towards building a more accessible and interconnected EV charging network for all drivers in North America.
The move could help accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles and contribute to the broader goal of creating a sustainable and cleaner transportation future.
