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Rivian NACS Integration: When and What to Expect
July 6, 2025 Joel Manansala

Rivian NACS Integration: When and What to Expect

Summary

  • Starting in 2025, new Rivian EVs will have native NACS ports.

  • Rivian EVs can already charge at over 15,000 Tesla Superchargers.

  • The Rivian Adventure Network will support both CCS and NACS long term.

  • Third-party adapters like the Lectron Vortex Plug are available now.

Rivian has joined the wave of automakers transitioning to the North American Charging Standard (NACS), a move that greatly improves the EV charging experience for current and future Rivian owners. The company now includes a free NACS-to-CCS1 adapter with every new R1T and R1S EV sold, and aims to integrate NACS ports directly into its vehicles starting in 2025.

Introduction to Rivian EVs and NACS

Rivian vehicles currently come equipped with the CCS1 port for DC fast charging and J1772 for home charging with Level 1 EV Chargers and level 2 units. However, Tesla’s expansive Supercharger network uses the NACS port, which was previously incompatible with Rivian models.

Image courtesy of Rivian

To bridge this gap, Rivian began rolling out NACS-to-CCS1 adapters in April 2024. This move enabled R1T and R1S drivers to tap into over 15,000 Tesla Superchargers across North America. Unlike some competitors that require a separate adapter purchase, Rivian included these adapters free of charge for eligible customers.

In a strategic update, all 2025 Rivian R1T and R1S models will include the NACS adapter as standard equipment in both the U.S. and Canada. More importantly, Rivian plans to integrate native NACS ports into its vehicles starting in 2025. This change will allow direct connection to NACS-compatible chargers without any adapter, streamlining the charging experience and future-proofing the brand for the evolving EV infrastructure landscape. Rivian was one of the first automakers to commit to the North American Charging Standard (NACS), signaling its early support for improved interoperability across charging networks.

Rivian's Current Status

When Rivian entered the EV market, it intended its first model to be a sports car. The prototype for the R1 was a mid-engine hybrid coupe, but plans were eventually shelved in 2011. It wasn't until December 2017 that Rivian announced a five-passenger pickup truck (the R1T) and a seven-passenger SUV (the R1S) as its first models. The R1T started delivery in 2021, while the R1S in 2022.

Image courtesy of Rivian

In 2019, Rivian inked a deal with Amazon to design and produce electric delivery vehicles (EDVs) as part of the online shopping platform's mission to reduce its carbon emissions. Deployment of the EDVs commenced in 2022 in nine US cities.

As of this year, the automaker has two models in the pipeline, the R2 and the R3. The R2 is a five-door mid-sized SUV slated for release in 2026, while the R3 is a compact SUV yet to get a release date.

Existing Charging Infrastructure

Image courtesy of InsideEVs

While a relative newcomer, Rivian has developed its own network of chargers called the Rivian Adventure Network. There are currently around 400 Rivian chargers in 70 locations across 22 states exclusive to Rivian models. Rivian DC chargers add up to 140 miles of range in 20 minutes, but the company says it will eventually increase charger speeds to 300 kW in the future, alongside plans of installing 3,500+ DC fast chargers across 600 locations in the US and Canada.

Charging Capabilities and Adapters

Rivian’s decision to ship free NACS adapters with its EVs provides owners with seamless access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. This NACS DC adapter allows the CCS1-equipped R1T and R1S models to charge via NACS until vehicles begin shipping with integrated NACS ports.

While NACS is quickly becoming the standard, CCS chargers are still widely used. Rivian drivers will need to hold onto their existing CCS adapters, especially during the transitional period. Fortunately, both CCS and NACS use the same communication protocol, so using EV adapters is simple and safe.

For home use, Rivian drivers can rely on a variety of EV chargers, including portable and wall-mounted options compatible with J1772 or NACS standards.

One hiccup in Rivian's transition to NACS is the delay in adapter delivery. Rivian started the registration for free adapters on April 4, 2024, with deliveries commencing later that month. However, some Rivian owners reported their deliveries getting pushed back further than their original ETAs. The same supply chain issue is plaguing Ford, which is making users turn to third-party NACS adapters like Lectron Vortex Plug.

Rivian-Approved Charging Solutions

Rivian’s charging ecosystem includes:

  • NACS-to-CCS1 Adapters for existing vehicles

  • Native NACS Ports starting with 2025 models

  • Rivian Adventure Network (RAN) chargers, currently CCS-only, but expanding

The Rivian Adventure Network features over 400 fast-charging stations in 22 states. These exclusive high-speed chargers can add up to 140 miles of range in 20 minutes, and Rivian plans to increase output to 300 kW while expanding to 600+ locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Tesla Superchargers now appear directly in the Rivian navigation and mobile app. Billing is automated via Plug & Charge, eliminating the need for third-party apps.

Rivian’s choice to standardize NACS adapters with new vehicles sets it apart from competitors like Ford and GM, which provide their adapters post-delivery.

Making an Informed Purchase Decision

When buying a Rivian EV, consider the following:

  • Rivian is adding NACS charge ports to all new R1T and R1S models

  • NACS ports will be standard starting in 2025

  • Access to both Rivian Adventure Network and Tesla Superchargers

  • Compatible with CCS1 and J1772 infrastructure

While supply chain delays have affected delivery timelines for free adapters, Rivian has prioritized new sales and vehicle rollout. For buyers who don’t want to wait, third-party adapters like the Lectron Vortex Plug offer a reliable alternative.

With the shift to NACS, Rivian is securing long-term compatibility with the largest and most reliable charging network in North America.

So When Is Rivian Getting the NACS?

Rivian’s NACS integration is well underway, with adapters available now and native NACS ports coming in 2025. This move enhances Rivian’s value proposition by giving its customers access to the most reliable fast-charging network in North America while maintaining compatibility with existing infrastructure.

FAQs

  • Is Rivian going to use NACS?

    Yes, Rivian has confirmed that it will start equipping its vehicles with NACS ports beginning in 2025, aligning with industry trends and enhancing compatibility with Tesla's extensive Supercharger network.

  • Can Rivian use Tesla charging stations?

    Yes, as of April 2024, Rivian owners have access to Tesla Superchargers via a NACS adapter. This collaboration allows Rivian vehicles to utilize Tesla’s extensive and reliable charging infrastructure. Additionally, using a Level 2 EV charger can significantly reduce charging times for Rivian owners.

  • Who is adopting NACS?

    Major automakers in the US, including Ford, GM, Rivian, and others, have committed to adopting the North American Charging Standard (NACS). This widespread adoption is likely to become a universal standard in North America.

  • Is Rivian or Tesla better?

    Tesla offers a more extensive charging network and longer market presence, while Rivian focuses on adventure-oriented features and unique off-road capabilities. The choice between the two depends on specific customer needs and preferences.

  • Will Porsche use NACS?

    Yes, the VW Group, Porche's parent company, has announced it is adapting the NACS adapter starting in 2025.

  • Will Rivian be able to use Tesla Superchargers?

    Yes, Rivian can use v3 Tesla Superchargers with a NACS adapter. Superchargers Open to NACS can be filtered out in both the Tesla map and Rivian navigation system.

  • What’s the best NACS adapter for my Rivian if I don’t want to wait for the free one?

    The Lectron Vortex Plug is a popular third-party NACS adapter for Rivian owners seeking faster access to Superchargers.

  • Do Rivian drivers still need to install a Level 2 charger at home if NACS is available?

    Yes, home charging is still essential. NACS compatibility helps non-Tesla EVs on the road, but daily charging is best handled by a Level 2 EV charger.

  • How can I tell if a Tesla Supercharger station supports my Rivian with an adapter?

    Look for V3 and V4 Superchargers or use filters in the Tesla and Rivian apps to find compatible stations.

  • Does switching to NACS mean I can no longer use CCS chargers with my Rivian?

    No. CCS chargers are still usable on Rivians that have CCS ports. Even future Rivians with NACS ports may still use adapters to connect to CCS stations.

  • Can I use a Lectron NACS adapter with my Rivian R1T or R1S?

    Yes, the Lectron Vortex Plug and similar adapters are compatible with CCS-equipped Rivian vehicles.

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