Pros:
1. Compatibility: Adopting Tesla-style NACS plugs will allow ChargePoint to cater to a larger customer base, as more electric vehicle owners can now use their charging stations.
2. Convenience: Customers who own vehicles with Tesla-style NACS plugs will no longer need adapters to charge at ChargePoint stations, improving overall user experience.
3. Market expansion: With the inclusion of Tesla-style NACS plugs, ChargePoint can potentially tap into the loyal and ever-growing Tesla community, expanding their market reach.
4. Preordered cable upgrade kits: Offering preordered cable upgrade kits demonstrates ChargePoint’s commitment to customer satisfaction and ensuring a smooth transition for existing users.
5. Future-proofing: By adopting these plugs, ChargePoint is aligning itself with industry trends and preparing for the future as more EV manufacturers transition to Tesla-style charging solutions.
Cons:
1. Limited impact: While this change benefits customers with Tesla-style NACS plugs, it might not significantly impact the overall EV market or customers using different charging systems.
2. Cost considerations: Although ChargePoint is offering cable upgrade kits, customers will still need to incur additional costs to adopt the Tesla-style NACS plugs, potentially creating a financial barrier for some.
3. Need for adapters: Customers using different charging plug configurations may still require adapters to use ChargePoint stations, which can be inconvenient and add extra steps to the charging process.
4. Timing: While the delivery of preordered cable upgrade kits in November is commendable, existing customers will have to wait until then to fully benefit from the Tesla-style NACS plug adoption.
5. Potential market limitations: It remains uncertain how many Tesla owners will actively utilize ChargePoint charging stations, as Tesla already has an established Supercharger network in place.
Preordered cable upgrade kits will begin shipping in November.