A major shift in electric vehicle (EV) charging standards has begun.
Starting with the 2025 model year, Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 for the U.S. market will come standard with the North American Charging Standard (NACS), a charging port developed by Tesla. This isn’t just about a change in connector shape. It signals a full-fledged transition of charging standards and infrastructure across the entire EV industry.
Far from being a short-term technological change, this marks the beginning of a long-term battle over dominance in the EV charging ecosystem.
What is NACS?
NACS is a charging port specification developed by Tesla. While the existing CCS1 system separates fast charging (DC) and slow charging (AC) into different ports, NACS supports both DC and AC charging through a single unified port. It's smaller and lighter in size.
Technically, it includes two pins for AC charging and two for DC charging, offering an efficient structure designed with user convenience in mind. Its lightweight design allows users to plug it in effortlessly with one hand, enhancing the overall user experience.
In 2024, the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) officially recognized NACS as the J3400 standard. Since then, major global automakers like GM, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Rivian have announced plans to switch to NACS starting in 2025. As a result, NACS is rapidly becoming the de facto EV charging standard in North America.
What’s different about the 2025 IONIQ 5?
The 2025 IONIQ 5 will come standard with a NACS port instead of the conventional CCS1. This allows drivers to access Tesla’s vast Supercharger network across the U.S. without requiring an adapter.
For users, this dramatically expands the range of accessible charging stations. Previously, using Tesla Superchargers required a separate adapter, which was inconvenient. With this update, that barrier has effectively been removed.
However, there are technical limitations. The IONIQ 5 uses an 800V high-voltage system, while Tesla’s Superchargers operate on a 500V basis. This results in limited charging speeds.
- Max NACS charging speed: Approx. 126kW
- Max CCS1 charging speed: Approx. 266kW
- Charging time (10% → 80%)
- NACS: ~32 minutes
- CCS1: ~22 minutes
Currently, CCS1 still holds an advantage in terms of charging speed.
So why NACS?
CCS1 may be faster, but NACS is considered a future-proof choice due to better charging network access, integrated port design, and alignment with industry trends.
Benefits of NACS
- Direct access to Tesla Superchargers
Enables seamless use of Tesla's widespread Supercharger network, greatly enhancing long-distance travel convenience. - Lightweight connector
Smaller and lighter than CCS1, making it easier to handle—especially beneficial for smaller or elderly users. - Unified AC/DC port
Simplifies vehicle design and maintenance by supporting both fast and slow charging through one port. - Compatibility with North American infrastructure
With most automakers adopting NACS, it's effectively becoming the North American charging standard. - Manufacturing efficiency
A standardized port simplifies vehicle design and supply chain logistics. - Potential long-term cost savings
Tesla’s charging fees are generally lower, offering users more affordable charging options over time.
What about South Korea?
Currently, South Korea uses CCS1 as its official EV charging standard. The Ministry of Environment stated, “Because NACS is a private standard, it cannot be officially adopted as a national charging standard at this time.”
Most public and private charging stations are designed around CCS1, making a swift nationwide transition to NACS unlikely. Coordination between the government and private charging companies will be essential for any change.
Nonetheless, more domestic automakers are equipping export models with NACS. Over time, Korea may consider either adopting NACS or offering dual-port compatibility.
Some automakers are currently exploring dual-standard strategies:
- Domestic: CCS1
- Export (North America): NACS
Charging adapters are also expected to be offered alongside these options.
What does NACS mean for consumers?
For actual EV owners, charging infrastructure is as critical as the vehicle’s performance. With widespread NACS adoption, drivers can access more charging stations with greater ease.
Especially in rural or long-distance driving scenarios, access to Tesla Superchargers could become a major purchase consideration. Greater charging reliability also translates to enhanced safety in emergencies.
However, in regions like South Korea where NACS isn’t yet standardized, users may still need adapters or dual-port vehicles—adding complexity and cost.
Conclusion: Understanding the direction of technology
The shift to NACS isn’t just about replacing a charging port. It’s a broader battle over user experience, global automaker strategies, and national infrastructure policies.
Hyundai’s 2025 IONIQ 5 stands at the center of this transformation, and the pace of change is only accelerating.
We are in a transitional period. Charging speed, charger compatibility, and station availability must all be considered. Automakers, consumers, and policymakers must prepare for the shift.
One thing is clear: charging is becoming the defining factor in EV purchasing decisions.
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