So, you've got a GMC electric vehicle and you're eyeing those widely available Tesla Superchargers for a quick top-up? You're in luck! General Motors (GM), which includes GMC, has embraced the North American Charging Standard (NACS) and made it possible for their EVs to utilize the Tesla Supercharger network. This means more charging options and less range anxiety for GMC EV owners. Let's break down how you can get your GMC charged up at a Tesla Supercharger.
Step 1: Are You Ready to Join the NACS Revolution?
Before you hit the road to find the nearest Supercharger, there are a few crucial preparatory steps. This is where you, the GMC EV owner, play a key role in ensuring a smooth charging experience.
Sub-heading: Obtaining Your Essential Adapter
The first and most vital piece of the puzzle is the GM-approved NACS DC adapter. Since most current GMC EVs come with a CCS inlet, this adapter acts as the bridge between your vehicle's charging port and the Tesla Supercharger's NACS cable.
Where to get it:
GMC Accessories Websites: You can purchase the adapter directly from the Chevrolet, GMC, or Cadillac Accessories websites.
MyGMC Mobile App: The most convenient way for many users will be through the myGMC mobile app. Navigate to the "Public Charging" section, then "Tesla Supercharger," and you'll find an option to "Order Adapter." You'll need to input your EV's VIN and select a delivery option (ship to home or pick up at your local dealership).
Local Dealer: Your local GMC dealership can also assist you with purchasing the adapter.
Why a GM-Approved Adapter? GM strongly advises using only their approved NACS DC adapter. Using a third-party adapter could potentially damage your EV's battery and may even void portions of your vehicle's limited warranty. It's a small investment for peace of mind and protection.
Sub-heading: Setting Up Your MyGMC Mobile App
The myGMC mobile app is your command center for accessing the Tesla Supercharger network.
Activation:
Open the myGMC app on your smartphone.
Navigate to the Settings section.
Select "Public Charging."
Find and select the blue "Activate" text next to "Tesla Supercharger."
Press "start."
Follow the prompts to enter your credit card information and press the "Activate" button to enroll in GM Tesla Charging.
Benefits of App Integration: This integration allows you to seamlessly find chargers, initiate charging sessions, and pay for the charge directly through the app, eliminating the need for separate accounts or payment methods at the Supercharger.
Step 2: Locating and Connecting to a Supercharger ️
With your adapter in hand and app activated, you're ready to embark on your Supercharging journey!
Sub-heading: Finding a Compatible Supercharger Station
Not all Tesla Superchargers are open to non-Tesla vehicles, and some older stations might not have the necessary compatibility.
Using the MyGMC App:
Go to the Map tab within the myGMC app.
Use the search bar to look for a Tesla public charging station.
Utilize the Filter icon in the Charging Stations list. Select "Compatible Plugs" and toggle NACS to "On" to ensure you only see compatible stations.
Important Note: GMC EV customers have access to over 20,000 Tesla Superchargers in the U.S. and Canada, specifically Generation 3 (V3) and beyond. The app will help you identify these.
In-Vehicle Navigation (if applicable): If your GMC EV has Google built-in compatibility, you can also use Google Maps on your center display to search for NACS charging stations after adjusting the adapter setting in the charge station filtering options.
Sub-heading: The Physical Connection Process
Once you arrive at the Supercharger station, the physical connection is straightforward.
Park Safely: Always ensure you're parked in a way that allows easy access to the charging port and doesn't obstruct other vehicles or chargers. Be mindful that Tesla's cable designs might make parking slightly awkward for some non-Tesla EVs, so ensure the cable can comfortably reach your vehicle without stretching.
Open Your Charging Port: Exit your vehicle and open the charging port door on your GMC EV. If it's a DC fast charger, remember to pull out the small cap covering the lower portion of the port.
Connect the Adapter: Take your GM-approved NACS DC adapter and firmly connect it to the Tesla Supercharger cable. The adapter is designed to plug into your vehicle's existing CCS charge port inlet.
Plug into Your Vehicle: With the adapter securely attached to the Tesla cable, plug the combined unit into your GMC's charging port. You'll feel a click when it's secure.
Observe the Light Ring: A light ring around your GMC's charging port will typically flash blue to indicate that the vehicle recognizes a charger has been plugged in.
Step 3: Initiating and Managing Your Charging Session ⚡️
The final steps involve starting the charge and keeping an eye on its progress.
Sub-heading: Starting the Charge via the App
The myGMC mobile app is crucial for initiating the charging session.
Select Your Charger: In the myGMC app, select the specific Supercharger stall you are using.
Tap "Start Charging": Once you've selected the correct charger, tap the "Start Charging" button in the app.
Monitor Progress: Within a few seconds, charging should begin automatically. The light ring around your GMC's charging port should turn green and remain green throughout the session. If it turns red, there might be an issue, and you should check the app or the charging station for more information.
Sub-heading: Best Practices for Charging
Optimal Charging Levels: For DC fast charging, it's generally recommended to unplug at around 80% state of charge, as the charging rate slows significantly after this point. If you need to reach 100%, consider moving to a Level 2 charger for the final top-up if available.
Idle Fees: Be aware of idle fees! Tesla Superchargers, like many public charging networks, charge a fee if your vehicle remains connected to the charger after it's fully charged or after a certain grace period. Be courteous to other EV drivers and move your vehicle once your charging needs are met.
Payment: Payment for your charging session is handled seamlessly through the credit card you linked in your myGMC app. You'll typically receive an email receipt after your session is complete.
Step 4: Concluding Your Charging Session ✅
When you're done, safely disconnect and be on your way!
Stop Charging: You can stop charging virtually through the myGMC app (or the in-vehicle Charging app if available).
Disconnect: Remove the charging cable and the NACS DC adapter as one unit from your vehicle.
Separate Adapter: Then, remove the NACS DC adapter from the Tesla cable by clicking the latch on the adapter.
Close Port: Close your GMC's charge port door. (Your vehicle might beep if you leave it open as a reminder!)
Return Cable: Ensure the Tesla Supercharger cable is properly re-holstered at the charging station.
By following these steps, you can confidently and conveniently charge your GMC electric vehicle at a Tesla Supercharger, expanding your charging options and making EV ownership even more seamless!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to purchase a NACS DC adapter for my GMC EV?
You can purchase a GM-approved NACS DC adapter through the Chevrolet, GMC, or Cadillac Accessories websites, directly from the myGMC mobile app (under Public Charging > Tesla Supercharger > Order Adapter), or by visiting your local GMC dealer.
How to activate Tesla Supercharger access in the myGMC app?
Open the myGMC app, go to Settings, then Public Charging, select "Activate" next to "Tesla Supercharger," and follow the prompts to enter your payment information.
How to find compatible Tesla Superchargers for my GMC?
Use the Map tab in the myGMC app and filter for "Compatible Plugs," ensuring NACS is toggled "On." This will show you Superchargers accessible to your GMC EV.
How to connect the NACS DC adapter and Tesla cable to my GMC?
First, connect the GM-approved NACS DC adapter to the Tesla Supercharger cable. Then, plug the combined unit firmly into your GMC's CCS charging port.
How to start charging my GMC at a Tesla Supercharger?
Once connected, open the myGMC app, select the specific Supercharger stall you are using, and tap the "Start Charging" button.
How to stop charging my GMC at a Tesla Supercharger?
You can stop the charging session using the myGMC app or the in-vehicle charging app. Then, disconnect the adapter and cable from your vehicle.
How to avoid idle fees at Tesla Superchargers?
Ensure you move your GMC once your charging session is complete or when your battery reaches your desired charge level to avoid incurring idle fees.
How to know if my GMC EV needs a software update for Supercharger compatibility?
Most GM EVs are compatible. Some 2019-2020 Chevrolet Bolt EVs may require a software update; owners of these vehicles will typically be contacted by GM.
How to troubleshoot charging issues at a Tesla Supercharger?
If you encounter a red light on your charging port or issues in the app, check the myGMC app for error messages or consult the information provided at the charging station. You can also contact GM's EV support or Tesla Customer Support if needed.
How to pay for charging sessions at Tesla Superchargers with my GMC?
Payment is automatically processed through the credit card information you linked when activating Tesla Supercharger access in your myGMC mobile app.
Learn more about using a NACS adapter at a Tesla Supercharger in this helpful video:
