ChargePoint presents its own NACS adapter system
However, this is not a separate adapter for consumers. The ‘Omni Port’ is integrated into the charging station. The way it works is simple. Users can register their vehicle using the ChargePoint app. Suppose the charging process is started via the latter or the NFC sensor on the charging station with the smartphone. In that case, the charging station releases the appropriate plug – either the integrated adapter remains in the charging station and the CCS1 cable is released, or, in the case of NACS vehicles, the adapter is released. It can be pulled out of the charging station directly with the charging cable. If you are not using the ChargePoint app, you can manually select the appropriate plug on the charging station’s touchscreen.
In other words, EV drivers do not have to carry a suitable adapter for their vehicle – although this only applies to the new ChargePoint columns with the integrated ‘Omni Port.’ ChargePoint and other operators want to add a NACS connection to their existing CCS charging stations. However, if this has not been done, a separate adapter will still be required (in the transition).
As private customers who charge at a wide variety of stations will still need their own adapter, ChargePoint is also targeting corporate customers who install charging infrastructure at their sites with the ‘Omni Port.’ The logic: if a charging station is set up with the integrated adapter system, fleet operators no longer have to worry about which charging standard the current and future company cars have – the charging station can do it all. The ‘Omni Port’ is also said to be cheaper than an additional charging cable. Its flexibility prevents a parking space (to the left of the charging station, for example) from having to be reserved for a specific type of plug.
ChargePoint will integrate its new ‘Omni Port’ solution into “select ChargePoint AC and DC charging stations at no additional cost, making them an obvious choice for new charger installations,” Chargepoint says. Chargers with the ‘Omni Port’ will be delivered from the end of the year. Moreover, the ‘Omni Port’ can be retrofitted to the ChargePoint models CP6000 and Express Plus Power Link 2000 “at a nominal cost.”
“Across hardware and software, ChargePoint is bringing to market innovative solutions that ensure all drivers who need to charge are able to do so,” said Rick Wilmer, CEO of ChargePoint. “With Omni port, ChargePoint solved the challenges associated with a multiple connector environment, ensuring Tesla and non-Tesla drivers can continue to expect a world-class driver experience. We are giving drivers and site hosts assurance that ChargePoint will continue to meet all their charging needs now and in the future.”
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