Navigating the World of EV Charging Adapters
The electric vehicle (EV) landscape has grown dramatically in recent years, with more and more drivers making the switch to zero emission transportation. In fact, EV sales in the U.S. increased 166% between 2021 and 2024.1 As the EV charging industry transitions to a single charging connector type—the NACS connector, or J3400 as it is officially known—there will be a period of time where drivers may need to rely upon public chargers that offer different connectors than their vehicle’s charge port design.
Public charging stations may not always feature every connector type (e.g., J1772 and NACS for Level 2 AC charging or CHAdeMO, CCS, and NACS for DC fast charging). Adapters allow vehicles with a certain charge port to charge at stations with a different connector (like using a CCS adapter to charge a Tesla vehicle at a non-Tesla station), expanding charging options for drivers. While it’s good for EV drivers to have more options to plug in, proper use of adapters is critical to deliver an optimal charging experience.
By following the essential do's and don'ts of adapter usage, you can ensure smooth and safe charging every time. Keep reading to learn how to navigate the world of EV charging adapters with confidence!
Do’s
Do: Purchase automaker-manufactured adapters specifically designed for your vehicle make and model and the type of charging stations (i.e., DC fast charging) you plan to use.
To ensure the safety of EVs and electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) on the EVgo network, only automaker-manufactured adapters designed for your vehicle make and model and that are UL2252 certified are permitted. Before buying an adapter, check if your EV lease or purchase includes one manufactured by the automaker.
Do: Inspect the adapter for any signs of damage and wear (e.g., cracks, frayed wires, looseness) before each use.
Damaged adapters can have unintended consequences such as vehicle or charging station damage due to overheating or short circuits. Adapters introduce an additional interface between the EV and EVSE, increasing the potential for connectivity or functionality issues. Therefore, it is crucial to only use approved adapters without defects. By doing so, you’ll keep your EV and favorite charging station in optimal condition.
Do: Connect the adapter securely to both the vehicle and the charging station.
It's common to misconnect an adapter, and without a snug fit, the equipment isn’t set up to work properly. Be sure to carefully align the appropriate adapter to the DC charging connector before plugging into your vehicle. Once secure, gently insert the adapter into your vehicle’s charging port to initiate a session. This will protect the equipment and reduce wear and tear.
Do: Store adapters correctly to prevent damage.
An EV charging adapter is an investment and like any valuable equipment, it’s important to protect it from accidental damage. Properly storing your adapter in between usage can prevent physical damage from dings or drops, as well as moisture, debris, or heat-induced damage while in your car. If your adapter has a case, use it for storage.
Don'ts
Don't: Use an adapter that is not specifically designed for your vehicle or charging station.
Not every adapter on the market is compatible with all vehicles and charging stations. This is why it’s strongly recommended to only use adapters specifically designed for your vehicle model and the type of charging stations you plan to use (See Do’s #1). There are several negative consequences to using the incorrect adapter including overheating, short circuits, reduced charging speed, and vehicle or charger damage. Never connect an adapter meant for AC to a DC charger, or use adapters intended to be connected to both AC and DC.
Don't: Use old adapters purchased for another EV model or adapters sold by non-automotive manufacturers online.
When you purchase a new EV, you should also purchase a new adapter, if needed. An adapter created for one EV model may not be compatible with another model, even if made by the same automaker. This is because EVs have different charging requirements (due to voltage and amperage) and utilize various charging port types. For example, SAE recently increased the voltage rating of the NACS J3400 connector to 1000V, rendering many adapters in circulation unsafe for use in newer vehicles. Remember to only purchase automaker-manufactured adapters (See Do’s #1).
Don't: Use DC extension cords or "break away" adapters.
Simply put, DC extension cords or “break away” adapters are not designed for the currents or voltages of high-power fast chargers. Extension cords can overheat, melt or in very rare cases, catch fire. The usage of these items is prohibited in EVgo’s Terms of Service and poses extreme danger to vehicles and charging stations.
Don't: Leave the adapter connected to the vehicle or charging station when not in use.
After your charging session, don’t forget to remove the adapter from the DC charging connector before you put the cable in its holster.
Don’t: Attach more than one adapter to the charging connector.
It is not safe to add multiple adapters to a single charging connector. Combining can overload the connector or the power source, which are designed for specific electrical current limits and mechanical torque. There is also a possibility of vehicle damage.
At EVgo, driver safety is our top priority. These tips on adapter use protect the charging equipment but more importantly, every customer who plugs into an EVgo fast charging station. We want everyone to have seamless EV charging experiences and following proper adapter usage guidelines is critical to achieving that goal. EVgo plans to add native NACS connectors to its nationwide fast charging network for the best performance and ease of use.
For EVgo’s updated policy on EV charging adapters, read the Terms of Service.
1 https://cleantechnica.com/2025/01/27/usa-ev-sales-in-2024-up-7-over-2023-61-over-2022-166-over-2021/