Can BMW Electric Cars Use Tesla Charging Stations?

Tesla’s Superchargers Now Open to BMW and Other CCS Vehicles

While Tesla has been at the forefront of EV technology and infrastructure, their Supercharging network was initially exclusive to Tesla vehicles. However, the landscape of EV charging is changing rapidly, and there’s a surprising development: BMW electric vehicles can now use Tesla Supercharging stations.

Tesla’s Supercharging network was previously exclusive to Tesla vehicles. However, BMW has adopted Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS), along with other companies such as Ford, GM, Rivian, Volvo, Polestar, Nissan, Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar Land Rover, Fisker, Hyundai, and Kia.

BMW’s CCS Connector and Access to Tesla Superchargers

Owners of vehicles with a Combined Charging System (CCS) connector will receive an adapter that allows them to plug into Tesla’s fast chargers. This includes the BMW i4, i5, i7, and iX, as well as the MINI Cooper SE and Rolls-Royce Spectre.

Tesla Superchargers use a 480-volt direct current for electric vehicle charging. The BMW i3 is compatible with non-Supercharger Level 3 charging stations and most Level 2 charging stations.

Non-Tesla Supercharging is only accessible for CCS-enabled vehicles. If a Supercharger post has two cables or an installed adapter, non-Tesla cars can only charge with the CCS connector. Tesla is unable to accommodate vehicles that do not fully comply with CCS communication and safety protocols.

How It Works:

The BMW-Tesla Supercharger adapter is designed to bridge the gap between Tesla’s proprietary connector and the CCS (Combined Charging System) standard used by BMW and many other non-Tesla EVs. The adapter serves as a translator, allowing BMW EVs to connect seamlessly with Tesla Superchargers.

To use the adapter, BMW owners simply plug it into their vehicle’s CCS port and then connect it to the Tesla Supercharger station. The station’s screen will guide the user through the charging process, just as it does for Tesla owners. This newfound compatibility means that BMW electric vehicle owners can now take advantage of the extensive Tesla Supercharger network, which spans across many regions and offers high-speed charging for long-distance travel.

Benefits for BMW Owners:

Increased Charging Options: BMW owners now have access to a vast network of fast-charging stations, enhancing their ability to travel long distances with ease.
Faster Charging: Tesla Superchargers are known for their rapid charging speeds, which means BMW EVs can charge quickly and efficiently at these stations.
Convenience: BMW owners can benefit from Tesla’s well-located Supercharger stations, often situated along popular travel routes and near amenities.
Potential Cost Savings: Depending on local pricing and agreements, using Tesla Superchargers might offer competitive or advantageous charging rates.
Collaborative Industry Efforts: This development exemplifies the growing spirit of cooperation within the EV industry, ultimately benefiting all EV enthusiasts.

The news of BMW electric vehicles becoming compatible with Tesla Supercharging stations is a game-changer for the EV community. It demonstrates that automakers and charging networks are working together to make EVs more accessible and convenient for all drivers. This development not only benefits BMW owners but also contributes to the growth of electric mobility as a whole. As the EV landscape continues to evolve, we can look forward to even more innovations and collaborations that make the switch to electric vehicles an increasingly attractive option for consumers.

Is Tesla charging free?

Tesla owners can charge their vehicles for free at Tesla Supercharger stations and some Destination charging locations. Tesla offers a 400 kWh annual credit (roughly 1,000 miles) for Supercharging, but after that, you will be charged according to your vehicle’s state-by-state pricing policies.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – October 17, 2023… In a continued effort to provide the best possible electric vehicle charging experience for its customers, BMW of North America and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA announced today that drivers of BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce Combined Charging System (CCS) battery electric vehicles (BEV) in the U.S. and Canada will gain access to designated Tesla Supercharger stations in early 2025.

BMW Group to Adopt the North American Charging Standard (NACS) for its Battery Electric Vehicles in the U.S. and Canada, Starting in 2025.
Drivers of BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce Electric Vehicles in the U.S. and Canada Will Gain Access to Designated Tesla Supercharger Stations in Early 2025.
New Agreement Comes in Addition to BMW’s Commitment to Develop a New Charging Network in North America with Six OEM Partners.

The companies will work together in the coming months to create a seamless customer experience enabling BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce drivers to find and access available Superchargers on their vehicle’s display, and make payments through their respective vehicle’s brand app.

As part of the arrangement, the BMW Group will also adopt the North American Charging Standard (NACS) for its battery electric vehicles in the U.S. and Canada, starting in 2025.

At The End

This agreement is independent of BMW NA’s recently announced commitment, with six other automakers, to create a joint venture company that will build a new, high-powered electric vehicle charging network in North America. The new joint venture will build at least 30,000 new chargers in metropolitan areas and along major highways, which will be accessible to drivers of all battery electric vehicles from any automaker using CCS or NACS charging standards. The joint venture is expected to be established this year, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

Join Us For More Information.