Nissan Prepares a Treat for Electric Vehicle Charging Woes

Photo Source: NISSAN 

Nissan is expanding its commitment to electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in North America. In October 2024, the manufacturer introduced the Nissan Energy Charge Network, a new virtual platform designed to simplify the charging experience for Nissan drivers. Through the MyNissan app, users can easily locate charging stations, check their real-time availability, and initiate payments. Nissan aims to provide a seamless and thorough solution for customers who own or are considering purchasing Nissan EVs.

While not entirely groundbreaking, Nissan’s virtual charging network joins other automakers like Ford, Rivian, and Kia in offering a centralized platform for accessing charging points from various networks. This is significant in the United States, where the charging infrastructure for non-Tesla EVs is often fragmented, requiring multiple applications and payment methods. Nissan’s initiative to organize this process could greatly improve the convenience of EVs for drivers.

Does Nissan Employ an EV Charging Network?

For context, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory recorded over 30,000 public DC fast-charging ports in the United States during the first quarter of 2024. By incorporating AC charging points, the total number of chargers available is just under 180,000.

Nissan’s Energy Charge Network leverages a diverse range of partners, including:

• Electrify America, a prominent provider known for its extensive fast-charging infrastructure
• ChargePoint
• EVgo
• Shell Recharge

This collaborative method enables Nissan to offer access to over 90,000 charging points across the country. As Nissan continues to associate with additional charging providers, the network’s coverage and availability will only improve, benefiting Nissan EV owners.

Nissan announced that this new service will initially be accessible to Nissan Ariya owners and future EV models beginning in November 2024. Of note, the older Nissan Leaf model won’t be included due to its aging CHAdeMO DC fast charging port and legacy NissanConnect EV and Services app.

Tesla’s Upcoming Impact

Although Nissan provides the EV Carefree+ program for Leaf and Ariya models, the brand is also offering Ariya owners an NACS adapter. This adapter will allow Ariya drivers to conveniently charge at Tesla Supercharger stations starting before the end of 2024.

Notably, while some automakers, like Rivian and Ford, have chosen to provide NACS adapters to their customers at no cost, others like GM have opted to sell the adapters. This technique reflects varying strategies among manufacturers to address the growing prevalence of Tesla Superchargers. As of this writing, Nissan has yet to confirm whether the adapter will be free.

Moreover, Nissan plans to introduce new models equipped with the NACS port starting in 2025. This move supports the brand’s Arc mid-term business plan, a strategy to debut a total of 16 new EVs worldwide by 2026. This initiative aligns with Nissan’s broader goal of promoting sustainable transportation solutions.

Go Electric in the Ariya at Nissan of Fort Pierce!

The Ariya demonstrates Nissan’s dedication to combining affordability and performance in its EVs. With a starting MSRP of $39,590 (Plus destination fee) and an EPA-estimated range of 304 miles, check out the Ariya in our new vehicle inventory along with our new vehicle specials.