Is ChargePoint’s Adoption of Tesla-style NACS Plugs a Game-changer for Customers?

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.

context: https://arstechnica.com/cars/2023/10/chargepoint-starts-rolling-out-tesla-style-nacs-plugs-for-its-customers/

Preordered cable upgrade kits will begin shipping in November.