As automakers and charging networks move to adopt the Tesla North American Charging Standard (NACS) for EV fast charging, ChargePoint is releasing latest hardware that combines Tesla and non-Tesla connector types.
The ChargePoint Omni Port can accommodate NACS and Combined Charging Standard (CCS) connectors, in addition to the SAE J1772 connector for AC charging that is often incorporated into CCS ports. The Omni Port will likely be incorporated into latest charging stations, and retrofitted to some existing stations, ChargePoint said in a press release.
ChargePoint Omni Port
Drivers simply enter their vehicle’s make and model into the ChargePoint app and tap to start out charging. The charging station will then routinely release the proper connector for his or her vehicle. This is analogous to what Tesla does with its Magic Dock, and it could help eliminate hassles in charging at sites with multiple connector types.
With all essential hardware permanently attached to every charging station, drivers don’t need to search out a parking spot that matches their vehicle’s connector type, or cope with adapters that might wander away or stolen. Omni Port can also be UL-approved, so drivers haven’t got to fret about low-cost adapters that are not as much as safety standards.
Porsche Macan EV at ChargePoint charger
Omni Port connectors will begin shipping by the tip of 2024, ChargePoint said. The corporate may also retrofit them onto its existing CP6000 Level 2 AC public charger and Express Plus Power Link 2000 DC fast charger at a “nominal cost” to operators.
As of June 2024, ChargePoint features a total of 62,536 chargers across 34,569 locations, in response to the Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center. That breaks out to 2,783 locations with DC fast charging and 31,789 with AC charging. Achieving decent reliability for those stations across different makes and models with different charge ports will likely be a challenge, but streamlined hardware looks as if a very good start.
This Article First Appeared At www.greencarreports.com
