Why NACS Isn’t a Reason to Hold Off on a Rivian
Let’s talk about Rivian and NACS! Rivian announced that starting in 2025, they’ll be adding NACS charge ports to the R1T and R1S, along with a CCS adapter for existing chargers. Naturally, there’s been some buzz about whether people should wait for a “native NACS” Rivian vehicle instead of dealing with an adapter.
Here’s the thing: CCS adapters aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. Even as the U.S. shifts toward the J3400 (NACS) standard, you’ll likely still need a CCS adapter for certain charging stations. So, if you’re holding off on buying a Rivian because you’re not a fan of adapters—don’t.
They’ve also confirmed that Rivian Adventure Network sites will eventually support both CCS and NACS. Long-term, Rivian plans to continue supporting their CCS-equipped vehicles, so you’re covered no matter when you buy.
Here’s my prediction: The first native NACS Rivian might just be the upcoming Quad R1. And if I had to guess, we’ll probably see it launch in Q2 2025. That’s still speculation for now, but it would make sense for Rivian to align a big update like that with a new trim or model.
NACS is coming, but don’t let the whole adapter thing hold you back. Rivian’s making sure all their vehicles—past, present, and future—are ready to roll with whatever the charging world throws at us.
I disagree
Curious, why do you say that?
Anyone who is informed and looking for a 2025 would be waiting for NACS, my wife wants a Rs but don’t want to deal with the adapter. Having own manyTeslas before, nothing beats te Tesla supercharger experience. On my R1T that’s all I use, the other brands is a 50/50 that it works, and if you get it to work, so many times, it takes about 5 min to get it going.
( Rivian adventure network works well, but not enough to justify not waiting for native NACS)
I disagree as well. I am coming from a gas truck but have Teslas and want to get an R1T, but I am not going to use adapters with my home charging system and on family trips. I am personally waiting on the refresh that brings native NACS. The minute they release this feature I am sure they will open up a reluctant market of folks with my mindset.
But using the adapter with Rivian does not open up ALL Tesla superchargers, only some, and the adapter will not work with older superchargers. I’d rather hold out purchasing a Rivian when NACS is standard on the vehicle.