Hello there, Rivian adventurer! Are you ready to broaden your charging horizons and tap into Tesla's extensive Supercharger network? Great, because with the right equipment and a few simple steps, you can confidently power up your R1T or R1S at many Tesla Supercharger stations. Let's get started!
Step 1: Gear Up – The Essential NACS DC Adapter
The first and most crucial step is ensuring you have the correct adapter. Rivian vehicles primarily use the CCS (Combined Charging System) charge port. To connect to Tesla's North American Charging Standard (NACS) Superchargers, you'll need a NACS DC adapter.
Why this adapter? This adapter acts as a bridge, allowing your Rivian's CCS port to communicate and receive power from a Tesla NACS connector.
Important Note: Rivian is planning to integrate NACS ports directly into their vehicles starting in 2025. For current models (2022-2025), the NACS DC adapter is essential. Also, ensure you have the DC adapter, not an AC adapter, as using the wrong type can cause issues. The Rivian-provided NACS DC adapter is designed specifically for DC fast charging at Superchargers.
 |
| How To Charge Rivian At Tesla Charger |
Step 2: Locate Compatible Superchargers
Not all Tesla Superchargers are open to non-Tesla EVs. To avoid a wasted trip, it's vital to identify compatible stations beforehand.
Using Your Rivian App/Navigation:
Open your Rivian mobile app or use the in-vehicle navigation system.
Go to the charging map.
Filter for Level 3 (DC Fast Chargers) and ensure you enable the filter to show stations that require an adapter. If you don't activate this filter, compatible Tesla NACS chargers might not appear.
The Rivian navigation system will only display compatible Superchargers. If a Supercharger isn't shown, it's not compatible with your Rivian.
Using the Tesla App:
Download the Tesla app and create an account.
In the app, you can also filter for "Charge Your Non-Tesla" or "NACS partner" and "other EV" to see available Superchargers for your Rivian.
Look for V3 and V4 Superchargers: These are generally the newer versions that support non-Tesla vehicles. Older V2 chargers often lack the necessary hardware.
Pro Tip for Battery Preconditioning: When you set a Level 3 charger as your destination in your Rivian's navigation system, your vehicle will automatically begin battery preconditioning (warming or cooling the battery to its optimal temperature). This is crucial for maximizing charging speed and efficiency at DC fast chargers.
Step 3: Initiate the Charging Session ⚡
Once you've arrived at a compatible Tesla Supercharger, follow these steps to begin charging:
Tip: Break it down — section by section.
Parking Smart: Rivian's charging port is at the front on the driver's side, while Teslas typically have theirs at the rear driver's side. This means you might need to park in a way that allows the Supercharger cable to comfortably reach your port, sometimes taking up two spots or requiring a bit of maneuvering.
Identify the Charger: Note the number on the Supercharger stall you're using.
Open the Tesla App: This is where the magic happens for payment and initiating the charge.
If you have a Tesla Supercharging membership (which offers discounted rates), you must initiate the charging session through the Tesla app before plugging in. Select the corresponding Supercharger stall number in the app.
If you're paying as you go and don't have a Tesla membership, Plug & Charge functionality might work. With Plug & Charge, if you have a payment method on file in your Rivian app, simply plugging in should automatically start the session and handle payment through your Rivian account. However, it's always a good idea to have the Tesla app ready as a backup.
Connect the Adapter: Attach your NACS DC adapter securely to your Rivian's CCS charge port.
Plug in the Tesla Connector: Once the adapter is in place, firmly plug the Tesla Supercharger cable into the NACS adapter.
Monitor Charging: The charging process should begin shortly. You can monitor the charging status and progress both on your Rivian's in-vehicle display and within the Tesla app.
Billing Nuances: Be aware that non-Tesla EVs generally pay a higher rate at Superchargers compared to Tesla owners. A monthly Tesla membership (around $13 USD) can provide a discounted rate, which can be worthwhile for frequent Supercharger users.
Step 4: Disconnecting and Continuing Your Journey
Once your Rivian has charged to your desired level, disconnecting is straightforward:
Stop Charging (if needed): While most sessions will stop automatically, you can manually end the session through either your Rivian's infotainment screen or the Tesla app.
Unplug the Connector: Gently but firmly pull the Tesla Supercharger cable from the NACS adapter.
Remove the Adapter: Detach the NACS DC adapter from your Rivian's charge port.
Return the Cable: Neatly return the Supercharger cable to its holster.
Confirm Payment: The payment will typically be processed through your linked payment method in the Tesla app or Rivian app, depending on how you initiated the charge.
FAQ: Common Questions About Charging Your Rivian at a Tesla Charger
How to find compatible Tesla Superchargers for Rivian?
You can find compatible Superchargers by using the Rivian app or in-vehicle navigation and filtering for Level 3 chargers that require an adapter. Alternatively, use the Tesla app and filter for "Charge Your Non-Tesla" or "NACS partner" locations.
Tip: Summarize the post in one sentence.
How to initiate a charging session at a Tesla Supercharger with a Rivian?
For discounted rates with a Tesla membership, initiate the session through the Tesla app before plugging in. For standard rates and if Plug & Charge is enabled, simply plug in after attaching your NACS adapter.
How to get the best charging speeds for my Rivian at a Tesla Supercharger?
Ensure your Rivian's battery is preconditioned for DC fast charging by setting the Supercharger as your destination in your Rivian's navigation system. This optimizes battery temperature for faster charging.
How to know if my Rivian needs a NACS adapter for Tesla chargers?
Currently, all Rivian R1T and R1S models (2022-2025) with a CCS charge port require a NACS DC adapter to use Tesla Superchargers. Rivian plans to integrate native NACS ports starting in 2025.
QuickTip: Read section by section for better flow.
How to avoid taking up two spots when charging my Rivian at a Supercharger?
Due to the Rivian's front-mounted charge port and Tesla's rear-mounted design, it can be tricky. Try to park at an end stall or angle your vehicle to ensure the cable reaches comfortably without blocking an adjacent stall.
How to pay for charging my Rivian at a Tesla Supercharger?
Payment is typically handled through the Tesla app via a linked credit card, or via Plug & Charge with your payment method on file in your Rivian app.
How to get a discounted rate for Rivian charging at Tesla Superchargers?
Subscribe to a Tesla Supercharging membership within the Tesla app, which costs approximately $13 per month. This will give you access to lower per-kWh or per-minute rates.
Tip: Reread the opening if you feel lost.
How to know if a Tesla Wall Connector (home charger) can charge my Rivian?
Yes, a Gen 3 Tesla Wall Connector can charge your Rivian. You may need to adjust settings in the Tesla app to allow "any electric vehicle" to charge.
How to ensure my NACS adapter is safe to use with my Rivian?
Always use a Rivian-approved NACS DC adapter, and ensure you are using it only for DC fast charging (Level 3). Do not attempt to use the DC adapter for AC (Level 2) home charging.
How to tell the difference between a V2, V3, or V4 Tesla Supercharger?
While difficult to tell visually without specific features, your Rivian or Tesla app will only show you compatible V3 and V4 Superchargers when the correct filters are applied.
For more information on setting your Tesla Wall Connector to charge your Rivian, check out this video:
 |
This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
💡 Breath fresh Air with this Air Purifier with washable filter.
