Tesla has finally released CCS Combo 1 (CCS1) adapter on its online store for US customers, according to InsideEVs.
The adaptor may be used at third-party charging stations and provides charging speeds up to 250kW. Meanwhile, the South Korean adapters were only capable of 100kW of peak power.
In retrospect, the adapter was first introduced in South Korea in October 2021. Currently, it is available for $250 in the United States. Remarkably, Tesla guarantees that its shipment will start two weeks after an order is made.
However, Tesla owners are still urged to verify that the CCS Combo 1 Adapter is compatible with their specific Tesla vehicles before making a purchase. This is because Tesla CCS Combo 1 Adapter only functions with the newer Model 3/Model Y and the updated Model S/Model X.
Tesla stated on the website, “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. We recommend checking that your vehicle is on the latest available software prior to signing in to your Tesla Account to verify vehicle compatibility.”
In the Controls, Software, and Additional Vehicle Information menu, users may see if a Tesla vehicle is compatible with the adapter by selecting “Enabled” or “Not installed.”
The Power Line Communication (PLC) chip is reportedly absent from vehicles manufactured before 2020 (and from certain vehicles built in 2020), which implies that they lack the hardware necessary to enable the CCS’s communication.
The upgrade is anticipated to be ready in early 2023. Interestingly, Tesla claims it “will be adding retrofit eligibility for Model S and Model X vehicles and older Model 3 and Model Y vehicles currently designated as requiring a retrofit.”
Users can get the little Tesla CCS Combo 1 Adapter for about $250. Given that, it seems a compelling choice that vastly increases the number of DC fast charging options available to Tesla drivers in North America.
It is also worth mentioning that the Tesla CCS Combo 1 Adapter store has further details and a manual. The first approach is to make it possible for Tesla vehicles to use CCS1 charging stations owned by third parties. Meanwhile, the option for non-Tesla vehicles to use Tesla Supercharging stations to charge is another.
Tesla explained, “most third-party stations are not capable of charging Tesla vehicles at 250kW. Tesla does not regulate the pricing or charging experience at third-party charging stations. Network membership is typically required at third-party charging stations. For more details on charging practices, please consult the third-party network providers directly.”
