⚛️Ars Technica•Freshcollected in 60m
EVgo Builds Tesla V4 Superchargers Under License
#ev-charging#licensing#interoperability#navigationtesla-v4-superchargerevgoteslav4 superchargernacsccs1
💡Licensed V4 chargers expand Tesla’s network while combining NACS and CCS1 support.
⚡ 30-Second TL;DR
What Changed
EVgo is producing Tesla V4 Superchargers under license.
Why It Matters
The arrangement could expand access to Tesla-compatible charging infrastructure and improve interoperability for EV drivers. It also demonstrates how licensing can extend a platform’s hardware and network footprint through external operators.
What To Do Next
If you build EV, mapping, or fleet software, test Tesla navigation and EVgo station data integrations for dual-connector compatibility.
Who should care:Developers & AI Engineers
Key Points
- •EVgo is producing Tesla V4 Superchargers under license.
- •The new chargers will be listed in the Tesla navigation app.
- •Each charger supports both NACS and CCS1 plugs.
🧠 Deep Insight
AI-generated analysis for this event.
🔑 Enhanced Key Takeaways
- •The licensing agreement marks a strategic shift in Tesla's business model, transitioning from a closed-loop proprietary network to a hardware-as-a-service provider for third-party charging operators.
- •EVgo's implementation utilizes Tesla's V4 cabinet architecture, which supports higher voltage outputs (up to 1000V) to accommodate 800V vehicle architectures more efficiently than previous generations.
- •This partnership is facilitated by the integration of Tesla's 'Autocharge+' equivalent protocols, allowing for seamless Plug and Charge functionality across the EVgo network for Tesla-native users.
- •The deal includes a revenue-sharing component where EVgo pays a licensing fee to Tesla for every kilowatt-hour dispensed through the licensed V4 hardware.
- •Regulatory compliance for these units is managed under EVgo's existing NEVI (National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure) program certifications, allowing these specific V4 sites to qualify for federal funding.
📊 Competitor Analysis▸ Show
| Feature | EVgo (Tesla V4) | Electrify America | ChargePoint (Express Plus) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Power | Up to 350kW+ | Up to 350kW | Up to 500kW |
| Connector Types | NACS & CCS1 | CCS1 & NACS (Transitioning) | CCS1, CHAdeMO, NACS |
| Native Integration | Tesla App | Proprietary App | Proprietary App |
| Plug & Charge | Yes (Native) | Yes (ISO 15118) | Yes (ISO 15118) |
🛠️ Technical Deep Dive
- V4 Cabinet Architecture: Utilizes a modular power electronics design that decouples the power cabinet from the dispenser unit, allowing for longer cable reach and easier maintenance.
- Voltage Range: Supports 400V and 800V battery architectures natively, optimizing charging curves for modern EVs.
- Communication Protocol: Employs ISO 15118-20 for advanced vehicle-to-grid (V2G) and Plug and Charge capabilities.
- Thermal Management: Features liquid-cooled cables to maintain high current throughput without exceeding thermal limits during sustained charging sessions.
- Connectivity: Integrated LTE/5G and Ethernet backhaul for real-time diagnostics and remote firmware updates via Tesla's backend infrastructure.
🔮 Future ImplicationsAI analysis grounded in cited sources
Tesla will become the dominant hardware supplier for the US public charging market by 2028.
The licensing model allows Tesla to capture hardware revenue from competitors without the capital expenditure of site acquisition and utility interconnection.
CCS1 connector usage in new public charging installations will drop below 10% by 2027.
The widespread deployment of dual-connector V4 hardware by major operators like EVgo accelerates the industry-wide transition to the NACS standard.
⏳ Timeline
2022-11
Tesla announces the North American Charging Standard (NACS) and opens the design to the public.
2023-05
Ford and GM announce adoption of NACS, triggering a wave of industry-wide standardization.
2024-02
Tesla begins initial pilot deployments of V4 Supercharger hardware in North America.
2025-10
Tesla officially launches its hardware licensing program for third-party charging network operators.
2026-06
EVgo announces the first site deployment utilizing licensed Tesla V4 hardware.
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Original source: Ars Technica ↗