Can Polestar 2 Use Tesla Chargers?

Key Takeaways:

Polestar 2 can charge at Tesla Supercharger stations in North America starting in mid-2024 using an adapter.
A deal between Polestar and Tesla will give Polestar EV drivers access to around 12,000 Tesla charging stations.
New Polestar EVs sold in North America will have the Tesla-designed NACS plug standard beginning in 2025.
Existing Polestar owners will need an adapter to charge at Tesla stations starting in mid-2024.
The partnership will significantly expand charging options for Polestar drivers in North America.

Introduction

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular, but one persistent concern for drivers is the availability of convenient charging stations. Tesla has built an extensive proprietary charging network for their vehicles, leading to questions about whether EVs from other automakers can utilize these chargers. Polestar, an electric performance brand spun off from Volvo, has announced a partnership with Tesla to allow their vehicles to charge at Tesla stations. But can Polestar 2 models specifically take advantage of Tesla’s industry-leading Supercharger network?

This article will provide a comprehensive evaluation of the charging capabilities of the Polestar 2 EV. It will analyze the recently announced agreement between Polestar and Tesla to enable sharing of chargers beginning in 2024. The scope includes examining how both existing and new Polestar 2 owners will be able to leverage Tesla’s expansive charging infrastructure across North America. The goal is to provide Polestar drivers with a definitive understanding of how they will soon benefit from Tesla’s charging network.

Gaining access to Tesla’s 12,000+ Superchargers will be a game-changer for Polestar 2 drivers and greatly expand their public charging options. Understanding the details of this arrangement and how to take advantage of Tesla chargers will maximize the value and convenience of owning a Polestar EV. Whether considering a new Polestar purchase or already an owner, this in-depth guide will equip readers with the insights needed to charge their vehicles seamlessly.

Can Polestar 2 Use Tesla Supercharger Stations?

When Will Polestar Vehicles Be Able To Use Tesla Chargers?

Yes, Polestar vehicles will be able to use Tesla Superchargers starting in mid-2024 in North America.
Polestar and Tesla announced a partnership in 2022 that will open up Tesla’s charging network in North America to Polestar EV drivers beginning in mid-2024. This will significantly expand the public charging options available to Polestar owners.
The agreement followed a similar deal between Tesla and Hertz that allowed the rental car company’s fleet of Teslas to use Superchargers. Polestar drivers will have the same access at approximately 12,000 Tesla charging stations across the United States and Canada.

How Will Polestar 2 Access Tesla Chargers?

New Polestar vehicles sold in North America will come equipped with the Tesla-designed North American Charging Standard (NACS) plug as standard beginning in 2025. This will allow Polestars to simply plug into Tesla chargers without any adapter needed.
For existing Polestar 2 and Polestar 3 owners prior to 2025, an adapter will be needed to use Tesla Superchargers starting in mid-2024 when the partnership takes effect.
Details on the adapter have not yet been released, but it will likely be a similar setup to the CCS1 to Tesla adapter that Tesla sells in Europe for other EVs to use Superchargers.
Polestar will likely provide these adapters to owners, but it’s also possible Tesla could sell them directly via their website and stores. Pricing for the adapter is still unknown.

Where Will Polestar Drivers Be Able To Charge?

The agreement will give Polestar vehicles access to nearly all of Tesla’s Supercharger locations in the United States and Canada.
As of January 2023, Tesla has over 1,400 Supercharger stations with around 12,500 individual Superchargers in North America according to data from the Department of Energy.
This will make finding a compatible fast charging station far easier for Polestar drivers, especially in areas with limited CCS networks. Long distance travel will also be facilitated by the addition of so many conveniently located charging stops.
It’s worth noting that some Tesla connector types may not be supported initially, such as the new liquid-cooled cables used by 250 kW V3 Superchargers. But the majority will charge Polestar EVs at speeds at least as fast as CCS networks.

What Charging Speeds Can Polestar 2 Expect at Tesla Stations?

Tesla Supercharger power output ranges from around 150 kW to 250 kW currently, with next-generation chargers going even higher.
The Polestar 2 supports up to 155 kW charging power, so it should be able to take advantage of the full charging speed possible on V2 Superchargers.
On V3 Superchargers with higher capacity, the Polestar 2 will be limited to 155 kW – but this is still fast charging comparable to most CCS networks.
For reference, 155 kW adds over 90 miles of range in around 15 minutes of charging time for the Polestar 2. This enables quick stops when road tripping in the vehicle.
The Polestar 3 SUV coming in 2024 will support charging speeds over 250 kW, enabling it to take full advantage of the fastest Superchargers.

Will There Be Any Limits or Additional Costs to Use Tesla Chargers?

Details are still limited, but Polestar drivers should expect some restrictions or costs to use the Tesla network, similar to the Hertz agreement.
There may be limits on the number of times a Polestar vehicle can access Tesla Superchargers per year without incurring additional fees. This could help prevent overcrowding at popular stations.
Basic charging costs are likely included to encourage use, but additional per-minute or per-kWh fees may apply beyond a certain point. The exact pricing structure is still to be announced.
Tesla may also implement restrictions during peak hours for non-Tesla EVs to ensure their owners can still charge reliably. But in general, the partnership aims to expand charging access.

How Will This Agreement Benefit Polestar Drivers?

Will This Replace the Need for More CCS Charging Stations?

No, expanding the CCS charging network is still important for non-Tesla EVs. But the Tesla agreement will provide a major convenience benefit for Polestar drivers in the near-term.
Tesla’s huge head start in building nationwide fast charging means their network is still larger than CCS in most regions. This deal bridgesthe gap while more CCS stations are built.
The partnership incentivizes installation of more CCS chargers by other networks to stay competitive. But it buys them time and gives Polestar drivers charging assurance in the interim.
For the next 3-5 years, access to Superchargers will likely play a major role in enabling convenient long distance EV travel for Polestar owners.

How Does This Deal Compare to Other Automaker Agreements?

Tesla has resisted opening up its network, making this deal a big win for Polestar. Only a few other agreements exist to date:
In Asia, Tesla allows use of its chargers by NIO, BYD and Star Charge EVs in limited locations under various agreements.
In Europe, Tesla started piloting Supercharger sharing in Norway in 2021 and recently enabled compatible chargers for other EVs with an adapter.
The Polestar North America deal arguably provides the most extensive and unrestricted access to Tesla’s network of any agreement so far in terms of locations and vehicles enabled.

Will This Increase the Appeal of Buying a Polestar?

Absolutely – access to Tesla’s charging network makes the Polestar ownership experience significantly more convenient.
Range anxiety is reduced knowing chargers will be readily available on road trips across the United States and Canada.
According to a 2022 survey by Recurrent Auto, fear of lack of public charging was the #1 reason car shoppers avoided EVs. This deal directly helps alleviate those concerns.
The agreement could sway buyers who have been considering both Tesla and Polestar vehicles by removing the charging infrastructure advantage.

What Do Industry Experts Say About the Deal?

Overall, reactions have been very positive with experts pointing to the consumer appeal benefits. According to Max Baumhefner, a senior attorney with the Natural Resources Defense Council:
“Tesla deserves credit for building a nationwide fast charging network years ahead of anyone else…Opening it up to drivers of different brands is a welcome development that will only accelerate the transition to EVs.”
Kelley Blue Book executive analyst Karl Brauer highlighted how it provides assurance for road trips and long-distance driving, saying it:
“…may convince more shoppers to get off the EV ‘fence’ they’ve been sitting on…”

Charging Considerations for Existing Polestar 2 Owners

Do I Need to Purchase Anything to Use Tesla Chargers?

Yes, you will need to obtain an adapter (likely from Polestar) that converts the CCS plug to Tesla’s connector. Exact details on acquiring this adapter are still to come.
The adapter will likely be similar to the CCS to Tesla part currently offered by Tesla in Europe for around $245. Expect pricing for the North American version to be comparable.
Keep the adapter with you in the vehicle so it’s available when you come across Tesla stations on your travels. Make sure to use it with care to prevent damage over time.

When and Where Will the Adapter Be Available?

Polestar has not provided details yet on when and how existing owners will get the charging adapter.
It will likely be distributed sometime close to mid-2024 when the partnership enables Polestar access to Tesla chargers.
Providing the adapters for free would be a smart goodwill gesture by Polestar. But it’s also possible Tesla may handle sales directly via its websites and stores.
If Polestar handles distribution, expect direct shipment or availability for order and pickup at Polestar locations. Stay tuned for more official details.

How Do I Locate Nearby Tesla Stations for Charging?

The Tesla charging map at https://www.tesla.com/findus?v=2 provides an overview of their Supercharger locations.
Third party apps like PlugShare also show Tesla stations and can filter by the connector type your vehicle requires.
As you approach Tesla stations, look for the “T” branded signs indicating Supercharger parking spots specifically. The large, closely spaced chargers are hard to miss.
It’s always wise to check the in-car navigation as well for charging locations along your route. Apps don’t replace built-in guidance.

What Should I Do When I Arrive at a Tesla Supercharger?

Park in a Supercharger spot designated for your vehicle’s connector type – this will vary over time as Tesla transitions to their new plug standard.
Adhere to proper Supercharger etiquette by charging only as long as necessary, then moving your vehicle promptly once charging is complete.
Expect a different user experience than CCS networks. There is no central payment terminal. Charging simply starts automatically when connected.
Be courteous to Tesla owners who may be accustomed to rarely sharing their chargers. With Polestar access, these spots will likely see more use.
If a charger is out of service or malfunctioning, reporting it quickly via the Tesla app will be appreciated and help improve the program.

What to Expect for New Polestar Buyers

When Will New Polestars Come With Tesla Plugs?

Starting with 2025 model year vehicles, all new Polestar cars sold in North America will come equipped with Tesla’s charging connector standard rather than CCS.
This includes both the Polestar 2 sedan and Polestar 3 SUV models. Any later Polestar models should also adopt the Tesla-designed NACS plug.
The switch to NACS for North America Polestars enables direct charging at Tesla stations without any adapters required starting in 2025.

Why Is Polestar Switching to the NACS Plug Standard?

Polestar believes Tesla’s connector is the most convenient and future-proof charging option given their vast charging network.
NACS uses a similar connector design to Tesla’s proprietary plug. But as an open standard, NACS allows interoperability between automakers.
Switching to NACS in North America means seamless access to Tesla stations for future Polestar drivers while still building CCS compatibility.
According to Polestar’s CEO, this flexibility provides “…the best charging solution for Polestar drivers in North America.”

How Does NACS Compare to Existing Connector Types?

NACS was collaboratively designed by Tesla and is fully compatible with their existing Supercharger network.
The connector is slimmer, lighter and lower-cost compared to CCS. It also enables thinner charging cables that are easier to handle.
NACS charging power goes up to 350 kW compared to 240 kW maximum currently supported by CCS plugs.
For customers, NACS combines the advantages of Tesla’s connector with the open accessibility of an industry standard.

Will the NACS Plug Limit Charging Speeds on CCS Networks?

No, Polestar states that their NACS-equipped models will still be backward compatible with CCS charging networks.
They will come with both types of plugs – the NACS for Tesla stations and CCS for other networks. The car automatically switches as needed.
This ensures Polestar buyers retain access to the full public charging ecosystem even as the vehicles transition to NACS.
Software updates may eventually allow dual-plug Polestars to handle future 800V ultra-fast charging via NACS, surpassing CCS capabilities.

Conclusion

The recently announced partnership that enables Polestar vehicles to access and charge at Tesla Supercharger stations provides enormous benefits for existing and future owners. Starting in mid-2024, Polestar 2 drivers and eventually Polestar 3 owners will gain charging compatibility at nearly 12,000 new locations across the United States and Canada, dramatically expanding public fast charging availability.

Existing Polestar owners will need to acquire an adapter to use Tesla chargers once the policy takes effect. But new 2025 model year Polestars will come equipped with Tesla’s NACS plug standard, allowing seamless direct charging at Tesla stations. This flexibility maximizes options for current Polestar drivers while optimizing charging convenience for future buyers as the EV market advances.

Overall, the Polestar-Tesla charging agreement promises to reduce range anxiety and charging headaches for an important new player in the EV space. Their vehicles will soon have access to America’s largest and most reliable fast charging network. Understanding the details of this upcoming arrangement will assist both prospective and current Polestar drivers in taking full advantage. The opening of Tesla’s walled garden charging ecosystem to another automaker is a positive step for expanding non-Tesla EV adoption in the years ahead.

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