Tesla recently reduced the price of its CCS Combo 1 Adapter and retrofit for all its North American vehicle models, including the Model 3. This price reduction makes accessing third-party CCS charging stations more affordable for Model 3 owners. This article will discuss the price changes, the retrofit process, and how to determine if your Model 3 requires a retrofit for CCS compatibility.
CCS Adapter Price Reduction
The CCS Combo 1 Adapter, necessary for connecting a Tesla to a non-Tesla CCS charging station in North America, has seen a significant price drop. Previously priced at $250 USD, the adapter is now available for $125 USD. This 50% reduction makes it a more budget-friendly option for Model 3 owners seeking broader charging options. The price in Canada has also been reduced from $345 CAD to $175 CAD.
Tesla CCS Adapter
CCS Retrofit for Model 3
Tesla vehicles manufactured before a certain date (typically around September 2022, but varies by region) require a CCS retrofit to enable charging at CCS stations. This retrofit involves a hardware modification to the vehicle’s charging system, allowing it to accept the CCS adapter. The retrofit also includes a complimentary CCS adapter. The price for the Model 3 CCS retrofit has been lowered from $350 USD to $225 USD. In Canada, the price has dropped from $475 CAD to $310 CAD.
Do You Need a Tesla Model 3 CCS Retrofit?
To determine if your Model 3 requires the CCS retrofit, navigate to Controls > Software > Additional Vehicle Information. Look for the line item “CCS Charging and third-party NACS DC charging.” This will indicate whether your vehicle already supports CCS charging or requires a retrofit.
NACS vs. CCS: The Future of EV Charging
While Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) is gaining momentum, the CCS standard remains prevalent. The CCS retrofit provides Model 3 owners access to a wider network of charging stations, particularly important for long-distance travel or areas with limited Tesla Supercharger coverage. Tesla’s increased production of NACS to CCS adapters further indicates a commitment to supporting both charging standards.
Tesla Model 3 CCS Retrofit: Conclusion
The price reduction for the CCS adapter and retrofit makes CCS charging a more accessible option for Tesla Model 3 owners. By offering this retrofit, Tesla ensures compatibility with existing charging infrastructure while the transition to NACS continues. This move benefits Model 3 owners by expanding charging flexibility and potentially reducing range anxiety.
