As automakers and charging networks move to adopt the Tesla North American Charging Standard (NACS) for EV fast charging, ChargePoint is releasing new hardware that combines Tesla and non-Tesla connector types.
The ChargePoint Omni Port can accommodate NACS and Combined Charging Standard (CCS) connectors, as well as the SAE J1772 connector for AC charging that is normally incorporated into CCS ports. The Omni Port will be incorporated into new 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 charging. The charging station will then automatically release the correct connector for their vehicle. This is similar to what Tesla does with its Magic Dock, and it could help eliminate hassles in charging at sites with multiple connector types.
With all necessary hardware permanently attached to each charging station, drivers don’t need to find a parking spot that matches their vehicle’s connector type, or deal with adapters that could get lost or stolen. Omni Port is also UL-approved, so drivers don’t have to worry about cheap adapters that aren’t up to safety standards.
Porsche Macan EV at ChargePoint charger
Omni Port connectors will begin shipping by the end of 2024, ChargePoint said. The company will 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 includes a total of 62,536 chargers across 34,569 locations, according 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 be a challenge, but streamlined hardware seems like a good start.
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