/Electrifying Rivalry J1772 vs Tesla NACS.png)
Navigation
The J1772, widely adopted by non-Tesla electric vehicle manufacturers, is the descendant of joint efforts by automotive industry leaders to create a standardized, hassle-free EV charging solution. It's characterized by its interoperability, safety features, and wide-ranging availability. This charging standard has been instrumental in streamlining the EV charging infrastructure, making it easier for EV drivers to find compatible stations.
Tesla, however, chose to pave its own path by introducing the innovative NACS, an integral part of Tesla's branded ecosystem. This self-contained approach has allowed Tesla to substantially improve the charging experience for its motorists, utilizing a connector that can accommodate both Level 2 and super-fast DC charging.
Both J1772 and NACS demonstrate strong capabilities and continue to play pivotal roles in shaping the electric vehicle industry's direction. However, they each offer a distinct experience, informed by different design philosophies and technological capabilities. In the forthcoming sections, we will delve into these differences, assess the strengths and weaknesses of both standards and discuss their influence on the expanding EV market.
What is the J1772 Charging Standard?
The J1772 Charging Standard is a North American specification for electrical connectors for electric vehicles maintained by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). The standard specifies the type of connector, its shape, electrical specifications, and communication protocols between the vehicle and the charger to ensure safe and consistent charging. J1772 covers Level 1 and Level 2 charging, with Level 1 using a 120 V AC plug (typical in household outlets), and Level 2 using a 240 V system, which enables faster charging. This standard has been widely adopted by many EV manufacturers and public charging stations across the United States and Canada, creating a streamlined approach to charging vehicles outside the Tesla ecosystem.
Advantages of J1772
The J1772 standard's widespread adoption can be attributed to several crucial benefits. One of the key advantages is interoperability, which allows most electric vehicles in the United States (bar Teslas requiring an adapter) to charge using J1772 connectors. This compatibility significantly simplifies public infrastructure, reducing the need for a myriad of different connectors.
Safety is another defining feature of the J1772 standard. The connectors have safety measures, like de-energized pins when not connected to a vehicle, preventing potential electric shocks. Furthermore, charging can only commence once a secure connection is formed and establishes communication between the vehicle and the charger.
The J1772 standard has gained widespread availability due to its endorsement and implementation by various auto manufacturers and charging system providers. The plug-and-play nature of the J1772 connector also enhances the ease of use, simplifying the charging process for EV drivers.
Disadvantages of J1772
However, the J1772 standard is not devoid of challenges. For instance, the charging speed of Level 2 J1772 chargers is limited, typically maxing out at around 19.2 kW. This charge rate is considerably slower than DC fast chargers offering substantially heftier power levels.
Another limitation pertains to overseas compatibility. While the J1772 is relatively common in North America, it is not so in Europe, where the Type 2 connector is more prevalent. This difference creates logistical challenges for U.S.-based EV owners traveling abroad.
Physical durability has also been reported as an issue by some users. The users suggest that J1772 connectors tend to degrade faster than anticipated, with components like the latch occasionally needing replacement due to normal wear and tear.
Lastly, the progressive EV market continues to demand faster charging technologies, putting pressure on the current J1772 standard to advance or risk becoming obsolete compared to new or improved versions.
What is the Tesla (NACS) Charging Standard?
The North American Charging Standard (NACS), previously known as the proprietary Tesla connector, is an exclusive electric vehicle (EV) charging interface developed by Tesla. It's more well-known for its usage within Tesla's Supercharger network, which was designed to enable fast charging for Tesla's line of electric vehicles. This standard enables rapid transmission of power thanks to its high-capacity design, ensuring fast and efficient charging cycles for Tesla users. In late 2022, Tesla opened its proprietary NACS connector to all, in an effort to accelerate the world's transition to electric. It is now recognized under an SAE technical report as SAE J3400.
Advantages of NACS
The NACS provides a universal charging solution within the Tesla ecosystem, where Tesla owners can easily use any Supercharger without the need for adapters, offering a harmonious and efficient charging process. Its design emphasizes speed, enabling much faster charging times through the Supercharger network when compared to the traditional J1772 standard.
Tesla’s NACS is also at the cutting edge, designed to work seamlessly with solar energy and Powerwall systems, reflecting Tesla’s commitment to clean energy integration. With a forward-thinking approach, the NACS is engineered for compatibility with future updates, ensuring that Tesla’s Supercharger improvements will continue to benefit even their older vehicles.
Despite its high-power output, the NACS connector is designed to be compact and user-friendly, facilitating daily use without hassle.
Disadvantages of NACS
However, the exclusivity of NACS means it is only available to Tesla users, which limits its utility for the wider electric vehicle market. As other EVs rely on the J1772 standard, NACS's absence in the general EV infrastructure is a significant constraint. Furthermore, the costs associated with Tesla’s specialized charging technology may lead to higher charging costs over time. Non-Tesla electric vehicles can technically access Superchargers using an adapter, but compatibility is not guaranteed for all vehicles or charging conditions, which introduces a layer of complexity for non-Tesla EV owners looking to tap into Tesla's expansive charging network.
/Tesla (NACS).png)
J1772 vs Tesla (NACS): Charging Speed & Power
In the world of electric vehicle charging, there exist mainstay standards such as the J1772 alongside proprietary systems like Tesla's North American Charging Standard (NACS). However, also noteworthy is the Combined Charging System (CCS), which enhances the capabilities of the J1772 connector, offering a more comprehensive solution for today's electric vehicles.
The J1772 standard is widely adopted across North America for Level 1 and Level 2 charging. Level 1 charging, considered slow charging, uses a typical 120 V AC household outlet and is ideal for overnight charging, providing approximately 4-5 miles of range per hour. On the other hand, Level 2 increases the voltage to 240 V AC, offering considerably faster charging speeds with an output of roughly 19.2 kW, translating into around 12 to 80 miles of range per hour, depending on the EV model and the specific charging station.
Building upon this foundation, the Combined Charging System (CCS) serves as an extension to the J1772 standard, providing even more charging flexibility. CCS combines the J1772 connector with an additional two-pin connector for DC fast charging, enabling compatibility with both Level 2 AC charging and DC fast charging stations. Fast charging stations can dispense power ranging from 50 kW to as high as 350 kW which can add hundreds of miles of range in under an hour, thus offering a powerful solution for short stopovers during long-distance travel. By incorporating CCS, the J1772 standard accommodates both slow, everyday charging and high-speed charging when time is crucial.
In contrast, Tesla's NACS is primarily designed for high-speed charging using Tesla's Supercharger network. These Superchargers offer Level 3 DC fast charging facilities and can deliver up to 250 kW of power, enabling Tesla vehicles to accrue roughly 200 miles of range in as little as 15 minutes.
While the NACS provides Tesla owners with swift charging times across their dedicated network, the integral compatibility of the J1772 standard, notably enhanced by the CCS, stands out for its wider vehicle and charging infrastructure compatibility. This unique blend offers EV drivers both the benefits of everyday or overnight charging along with the convenience of fast charging when needed, resulting in a more encompassing solution for modern EV charging needs.
J1772 vs Tesla (NACS): Charging Infrastructure
Electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure plays a crucial role in shaping the adoption and use of EVs. When comparing the widespread J1772 standard and Tesla's North American Charging Standard (NACS), two different charging ecosystems emerge, each fulfilling the diverse needs of EV drivers.
The J1772 standard underpins EV charging beyond Tesla's realm, gaining widespread adoption across North America. This broad acceptance has led to a vast network of Level 1 and Level 2 charging stations that service a wide range of EVs. Vehicle manufacturers opting for J1772 connectors have catalyzed the growth of an extensive, manufacturer-neutral infrastructure, encompassing residential, workplace, and public charging stations at shopping centers, hotels, and dedicated charging parks.
Notably, the J1772 connector's design accommodates the CCS1 extension for fast charging. The CCS1 unites the Level 2 J1772 connector with an additional two-pin connector for DC fast charging. This system melds both every day and fast-charging services, further expanding the charging network available to non-Tesla EV users in North America.
/Tesla (NACS) 2.png)
Meanwhile, Tesla's NACS, exclusive to Tesla vehicles until 2022, has given rise to a dedicated fast-charging infrastructure. The Supercharger network, providing Tesla owners with reliable and rapid charging, is strategically placed along major highways and in metropolitan areas to facilitate long-distance travel. Although the Supercharger network is impressive, Tesla acknowledged the need for compatibility with other charging standards and began offering adapters, allowing Tesla owners to access J1772 charging stations.
The J1772 infrastructure, enhanced by CCS1, presents non-Tesla EV drivers with extensive accessibility and compatibility across multiple vehicle brands. In contrast, the NACS and Tesla's Supercharger network supplied Tesla owners with a premium fast-charging ecosystem. As the EV market evolves, these differences underscore the increasing emphasis on integrating various charging infrastructures to accommodate the diverse needs of EV drivers.
Conclusion: The Future of EV Charging Standards
As the electric vehicle (EV) landscape continues to evolve, the future of charging standards is expected to reflect the pivotal trends shaping the industry. Among these are the shift towards fast charging, the rise of charging infrastructure, and the harmonization of different charging standards like the J1772, CCS1, and Tesla’s NACS.
Accelerating charging speeds is likely to remain a top priority. Charging standards such as CCS1 and Tesla's NACS already offer swift power transmission, and ongoing technological advancements promise even more rapid charging in the future. As capabilities expand, consumers can look forward to greatly reduced charging times, making EV driving even more convenient.
/Electrifying Rivalry J1772 vs Tesla NACS_01.png)
Next, the expansion of charging infrastructure will play a significant role in mainstreaming EVs. Despite the strides made by both the J1772 ecosystem and Tesla's Supercharger network, widespread EV adoption requires the availability of a wealth of accessible and reliable charging stations. Infrastructure growth will likely be supported by government initiatives and private sector investment, further enhancing the convenience and reliability of EVs.
Lastly, the harmonization of charging standards is expected to be a pivotal development. While the J1772 and CCS1 standards cater to a broad range of vehicles, proprietary standards like Tesla's NACS have so far catered to a specific user base. However, Tesla’s decision in 2022 to open its Supercharger network to other brands hints at a future where charging infrastructures may become even more universally compatible. With Tesla opening its proprietary NACS charging standard to other manufacturers and rising consumer demand for quicker charging times, the J1772 AC connector faces potential obsolescence due to its relatively slower charging capability.
The future of EV charging standards will shape and be shaped by consumer behavior, technological advancements, policy decisions, and industry trends. As these standards refine and converge, they will undoubtedly lay the groundwork for a more efficient, accessible, and inclusive EV ecosystem.
J1772 vs Tesla (NACS): FAQ
Is there a NACS to J1772 adapter?
Yes, there is a NACS to J1772 adapter. This adapter allows electric vehicles with a J1772 charging interface to connect with North American Charging Standard (NACS) outlets, thereby extending the charging network for EV users.
Is NACS better than J1772?
Whether the NACS is better than J1772 strongly depends on your context. If you're a Tesla driver, the NACS coupled with Tesla's Supercharger network offers convenient and rapid charging. However, the J1772 is a more universally accepted standard with a broad range of charging options for non-Tesla EVs. Each standard has its distinct advantages.
Which is faster, NACS or CCS?
Typically, the charging speed depends more on the specific charging station and car model than on the charging standard itself. That being said, both NACS (used at Tesla's Supercharger stations) and CCS1 (used at many DC fast-charging stations) are designed for high-speed charging. Tesla Superchargers can deliver up to 250 kW, while the latest CCS1 stations can deliver up to 350 kW.
What cars use the J1772 plug?
Many electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids use the J1772 plug for Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging. This includes models from manufacturers like Chevrolet, Nissan, BMW, Ford, Honda, and more