The Hyundai Motor Group is making significant strides in the electric vehicle market by incorporating Tesla’s NACS charging port design into its Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis electric vehicles. This move aims to address the issue of inadequate charging infrastructure, which has been a major barrier to wider EV adoption.
With five models set to hit the market soon, Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis are aligning themselves with Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) to provide customers with improved charging access. This decision not only reflects the industry-wide shift towards the NACS standard but also positions the Hyundai Motor Group as a frontrunner in this transition.
According to Andre Ravinowich, senior manager of product planning at Hyundai, the decision to adopt the NACS port was driven by the need to enhance infrastructure accessibility quickly. By leveraging Tesla’s charging network, Hyundai’s brands will gain access to over 17,000 EV charging stalls, making charging more convenient for their customers.
Among the upcoming models equipped with the NACS port are the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5, 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9, 2025 Kia EV6, 2026 Kia EV9, and 2026 Genesis Electrified GV70. These vehicles are expected to hit the roads in the coming months, offering customers a seamless charging experience.
The Hyundai Motor Group’s decision to embrace the NACS standard ahead of other automakers demonstrates its commitment to staying ahead of the curve in the EV market. While other brands like Ford and General Motors are also planning to adopt the Tesla plug design, Hyundai’s proactive approach sets it apart from the competition.
Overall, Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis are poised to lead the way in the transition to the NACS standard, with all new and refreshed EVs in the U.S. coming equipped with the Tesla-designed charging port. This strategic move not only enhances the customer experience but also solidifies the Hyundai Motor Group’s position as a key player in the EV market.
For more information on Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis’ adoption of the NACS charging port, contact the author at tim.levin@insideevs.com.