Kia is stepping up its game in the EV market with some exciting new updates for its upcoming models. The 2025 Kia EV6 and 2026 Kia EV9 are set to receive a game-changing feature called Plug & Charge. This feature will allow owners to seamlessly charge their vehicles at compatible DC fast chargers without the hassle of dealing with apps or cards every time.
The implementation of Plug & Charge means that as long as a payment method is set up in Kia’s Charge Pass system, owners can simply pull up to a compatible charger, plug in, charge, and disconnect without worrying about billing. The vehicle authentication and billing process will happen automatically, providing a more convenient and stress-free charging experience for Kia EV owners.
The 2025 Kia EV6 and 2026 Kia EV9 come equipped with a Tesla-style NACS charging port, making them compatible with charging operators like the Tesla Supercharger network and Electrify America. This eliminates the need for a charging adapter at Tesla Superchargers and certain Electrify America stalls that are equipped with NACS connectors. However, owners will still need an adapter to charge at most non-Tesla DC fast chargers in the United States, which typically have CCS1 connectors.
According to Kia, the Plug & Charge feature will be added to the 2025 EV6 by the end of September, with the 2026 EV9 set to receive the feature by the end of the year. Owners will be notified when the feature becomes available, along with instructions on how to use it. Sujith Somasekharan, Connected Car & Mobility Director at Kia America, expressed the company’s commitment to making electrified mobility effortless, secure, and connected through technologies like Plug & Charge.
This feature has already been available for Tesla owners using Superchargers and is now being gradually added to more non-Tesla EVs. For example, Rivian EVs can use Plug & Charge at Tesla Superchargers and Ionna’s Rechargeries. The Volkswagen ID.4 also supports Plug & Charge at Electrify America stalls.
Overall, Kia’s introduction of Plug & Charge is a significant step towards enhancing the EV charging experience for its customers. With seamless and automatic billing processes, Kia EV owners can enjoy a more convenient and user-friendly charging experience, making electric mobility more accessible and hassle-free.