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After Ford CEO Jim Farley announced that Ford EV drivers would gain access to Tesla Superchargers, there was a stampede of auto companies following suit and saying the same. However, it seems none of that was pre-planned — at least, not long in advance — and it has taken time for different automakers to get their connectors in order and get their EV drivers access to Tesla Superchargers. Kia is now the latest to get the job done.
“Kia EV owners now have access to the more than 21,500 DC fast chargers within the Tesla Supercharger network. With more than 22,000 accessible DC fast chargers already online in other networks, Kia EV owners now can charge at more than 40,000 DC fast chargers, increasing convenience and reducing range anxiety,” Kia announced today. “Kia EV customers that have Kia EVs with the standard NACS ports or Kia NACS adapters can now access the Tesla Supercharger network via the Kia Access1 app2. Additionally, customers can search, locate and navigate to available charging stations through their EV infotainment screen and on their compatible smart phone devices, including charger availability, status and pricing. Enrollment to the charging program will be available through the Kia Charge Pass program in the App.”
That sounds about as easy, useful, and convenient as it gets. It should make Kia EV drivers super happy as they more easily make superfast charging stops on road trips or around town and benefit from the broad Supercharger network.
This grows the number of fast charging stations Kia EV drivers can use by more than 80%!
I’ve been thinking seriously about a Kia EV6 (or Hyundai IONIQ 5) for a long time now, and this certainly makes the option more appealing.
“Kia is committed to an exceptional ownership experience and expanding the network of available DC fast chargers to our EV customers is an important component to maintaining the brand’s leadership in electrified mobility,” said Seungkyu (Sean) Yoon, President and CEO, Kia North America and Kia America. “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.” Indeed. That’s what it’s all about.
If you’ve been waiting for this announcement to finally get in an electric Kia, here you go — the time is now and you can get the benefit of convenient, easy Tesla Supercharging in a Kia EV6, Kia EV9, or Kia Niro EV. Enjoy!
Oh, as a quick PSA: note that not non-Tesla EVs don’t get access to all Tesla Superchargers. Older Superchargers are not set up to support non-Teslas. It seems Kia’s navigation and infotainment systems should make it clear where you can Supercharge, but don’t assume that a Supercharger you drive by regularly or spot on the side of a Wawa will definitely be compatible. I wish this was explained more openly and clearly to avoid confusion, but I’ll at least do my part here. 😀
Related story: Tesla Supercharger Network Still Growing
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