Kia has recently announced a major development for owners of the EV6, EV9, and Niro EVs in North America. These owners can now access over 21,500 Tesla Supercharger locations, significantly expanding the charging options for their electric vehicles.
In a statement, Kia expressed its commitment to providing an exceptional ownership experience for its customers. By granting access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger Network, Kia aims to enhance the convenience and reliability of charging for its EV owners. This partnership with Tesla will more than double the number of DC fast chargers available to Kia drivers, with over 40,000 chargers now accessible.
Sean Yoon, President of Kia North America and Kia America, emphasized the importance of expanding the network of DC fast chargers for Kia’s electrified mobility leadership. He stated, “Now, with access to the Tesla Supercharger network of DC fast chargers, our EV owners can feel even more confident in their decision to purchase or lease a fully electric Kia vehicle.”
To facilitate compatibility with Tesla’s charging infrastructure, Kia owners with a CCS1 Charging Port can obtain an NACS adapter through dealerships. This adapter will enable seamless charging at Tesla Supercharger locations. However, starting with the 2025 EV6 and 2026 EV9 models, Kia will include NACS inlets as standard, eliminating the need for an adapter.
In a related note, Kia acknowledged and apologized for social media posts from certain Nordic distributors that mocked Elon Musk and Tesla. The company clarified that these posts were developed independently by the distributors and do not reflect Kia’s official stance. Kia reaffirmed its commitment to clear and professional communication that aligns with its values.
Additionally, Kia condemned recent attacks that have disrupted the availability of convenient and affordable charging for customers. The company remains dedicated to providing a positive and seamless charging experience for its EV owners.
Overall, Kia’s partnership with Tesla and its commitment to enhancing the charging infrastructure for electric vehicles demonstrate the brand’s continued focus on innovation and customer satisfaction in the rapidly evolving EV market.