Charging your Kia EV9 at a Tesla Supercharger is now a reality, offering you access to a vast and reliable charging network. While Tesla's Superchargers were initially exclusive to Tesla vehicles, the company has begun opening up its network to other EVs, including Kia. This guide will walk you through the process, from getting the right equipment to initiating and completing a charging session.
The Era of NACS for Non-Tesla EVs: Why It Matters
For years, Tesla utilized its proprietary North American Charging Standard (NACS) connector, distinct from the Combined Charging System (CCS1) used by most other EV manufacturers in North America (and CCS2 in Europe and other regions like India). This created a fragmented charging landscape. However, with Tesla opening up its Supercharger network and many automakers, including Kia, adopting NACS for future models or providing adapters, the charging experience for non-Tesla EV owners is becoming significantly more seamless.
Step 1: Getting Ready - Your Essential Toolkit ️
So, you're ready to tap into the Supercharger network with your Kia EV9? Fantastic! Let's make sure you have everything you need before you head out. This initial preparation is key to a smooth charging experience.
Sub-Step 1.1: Acquire Your NACS Adapter
The most crucial piece of equipment you'll need is a NACS (North American Charging Standard) adapter. Your Kia EV9, if it's a 2024 or 2025 model, likely came with a CCS charging port. To connect to a Tesla Supercharger, you'll need an adapter that converts the Tesla's NACS plug to your EV9's CCS port.
Complimentary Adapters: If you took delivery of a new 2024 or 2025 Kia EV9 on or after September 4, 2024, you may be eligible for a complimentary Kia NACS adapter. Kia has been notifying eligible owners through their Kia Access smartphone app. Be sure to check your app or owner's portal for details on how to claim yours.
Purchasing an Adapter: If you're not eligible for a free adapter, or if you prefer a third-party option, NACS to CCS adapters are available for purchase from various manufacturers like Lectron. When buying, ensure the adapter is rated for high-power DC fast charging (e.g., 500A, 1000V, with a peak power output of 250 kW or more) to maximize your charging speed at Superchargers.
Sub-Step 1.2: Download and Set Up the Tesla App
The Tesla Supercharger network operates primarily through the Tesla app. Unlike many public charging stations that accept credit cards directly, Superchargers often don't have screens or payment terminals.
Download: Download the Tesla app (version 4.30.5 or later) from your smartphone's app store (iOS or Android).
Create an Account: Create a Tesla Account if you don't already have one. This will be your portal for finding chargers, initiating sessions, and managing payments.
Add Vehicle Details: Once logged in, select "Charge Your EV" and then tap the "Add Your Vehicle Details" banner. Provide your Kia EV9's information.
Add Payment Method: Link a payment method (e.g., credit card) to your Tesla account. A temporary authorization hold may be placed on your payment method when a session begins.
Step 2: Locating a Compatible Supercharger
Not all Tesla Superchargers are currently open to non-Tesla EVs. It's important to find one that supports your Kia EV9.
Using the Tesla App: The Tesla app is your best tool for this. Open the app and tap "Find a Charger" or use the interactive map. The app will display available Superchargers that are compatible with your Kia EV9.
Look for "Magic Dock" (Less Common Now): Historically, some Superchargers had a "Magic Dock" which was an integrated CCS adapter. While still present at some locations, the focus is now more on direct NACS compatibility for non-Tesla EVs via user-provided adapters.
Check Supercharger Type: The Tesla app will show the maximum charging speeds for each Supercharger. Be aware that some older V2 Superchargers (typically 150 kW) might not deliver the fastest speeds compared to newer V3 (up to 250 kW) or V4 (up to 325 kW) Superchargers. While your Kia EV9 can charge on V3 and V4, there have been some reports of slower speeds or initial connection issues at some V3 sites for certain Kia/Hyundai models.
Step 3: Initiating the Charging Session
Once you've arrived at a compatible Tesla Supercharger, the process is straightforward, but requires attention to detail.
Sub-Step 3.1: Parking Your EV9
Cable Length: Tesla Supercharger cables are designed for Teslas, which typically have their charging port on the rear passenger side. The Kia EV9's charging port is on the front passenger side. This might require you to park creatively, potentially straddling two charging bays, to ensure the cable reaches comfortably. Try to find an end stall if possible to avoid blocking other chargers.
Sub-Step 3.2: Connecting the Adapter and Charger
Retrieve Adapter: Take out your NACS adapter.
Attach Adapter: Firmly connect the NACS adapter to your Kia EV9's CCS charging port. Ensure it's fully seated and locked into place.
Plug in Supercharger Cable: Take the Supercharger cable from the stall and plug it firmly into the NACS side of your adapter. You should hear a click indicating it's locked.
Sub-Step 3.3: Starting the Charge in the Tesla App
Select Supercharger Post: Each Supercharger post has a unique identifier (e.g., 4A, 4B) at its base. In the Tesla app, select the corresponding post number you're plugged into.
"Charge Your Other EV": If you also own a Tesla, in the app, tap the menu in the top-right and then select "Charge Your Other EV." If you only have a non-Tesla, this option should be more prominent.
Initiate Charge: Follow the prompts in the app to initiate the charging session. It might take up to two minutes for the connection to be established and charging to begin. Keep an eye on the app for any error messages or to confirm the charging has started.
Sub-Step 3.4: Monitoring Your Charge
Once charging begins, you can monitor the progress, charging speed, and estimated time to completion directly within the Tesla app. The app will also show you the current cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh).
Charging Speeds: While Superchargers are known for their speed, the actual charging rate for your Kia EV9 will depend on several factors:
Battery State of Charge (SoC): Charging is typically fastest when your battery is at a lower SoC (e.g., 10-20%) and slows down significantly as it approaches 80%.
Battery Temperature: Optimal battery temperature is crucial for fast charging. Extremely hot or cold weather can reduce charging speeds.
Supercharger Generation (V2, V3, V4): Newer V3 and V4 Superchargers offer higher power output.
Adapter Efficiency: While modern adapters are designed for minimal loss, some efficiency can be lost.
Vehicle's Max Charging Rate: The Kia EV9 has its own maximum DC fast charging rate, which will be the limiting factor if the Supercharger can deliver more power.
Step 4: Ending Your Charging Session
When you're ready to stop charging, or when your desired charge level is reached:
Stop Charge in App: In the Tesla app, tap the "Stop Charging" button.
Disconnect Cable: Once the session is confirmed as stopped, carefully disconnect the Supercharger cable from your NACS adapter, and then remove the adapter from your EV9's charging port. Return the Supercharger cable to its holster.
Payment Confirmation: The app will finalize the payment for your session.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While the process is generally smooth, you might encounter some hiccups.
"Charger Not Recognizing Vehicle": Ensure the adapter is fully seated in your EV9's port and the Supercharger cable is firmly connected to the adapter. Sometimes, simply unplugging and re-plugging can resolve this.
Slow Charging: As mentioned, charging speed depends on many factors. If you're consistently getting very slow speeds, try a different Supercharger stall or location. Also, ensure your battery isn't too cold or too hot.
"No Compatible Chargers": Double-check that the Supercharger you've selected in the app is indeed open to non-Tesla EVs. Not all locations are.
"Ioniq 5 Workaround" (Historically): Some early EV9 owners reported success by selecting "Hyundai Ioniq 5 with adapter" in the Tesla app's vehicle details if the EV9 wasn't directly listed. However, as Kia has officially gained access, this workaround should become less necessary as the app gets updated.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to obtain a NACS adapter for my Kia EV9?
Eligible 2024 and 2025 Kia EV9 owners can claim a complimentary NACS adapter through their Kia Access app or owner portal. Otherwise, you can purchase a third-party NACS to CCS adapter from various EV accessory retailers.
How to find Tesla Superchargers compatible with Kia EV9?
Download the Tesla app and use its "Find a Charger" feature. The app will filter and show you Supercharger locations that are open to non-Tesla EVs.
How to initiate a charging session for my Kia EV9 at a Tesla Supercharger?
Plug your NACS adapter into your EV9's CCS port, then plug the Supercharger cable into the adapter. Open the Tesla app, select the corresponding Supercharger stall number, and follow the prompts to start charging.
How to pay for charging my Kia EV9 at a Tesla Supercharger?
Payment is handled entirely through the Tesla app. You'll need to link a payment method to your Tesla account before initiating a charging session.
How to maximize charging speed at a Tesla Supercharger with my Kia EV9?
Ensure your battery is at a lower state of charge (ideally below 80%), and that your battery is at an optimal temperature. Use newer V3 or V4 Supercharger stalls if available, as they offer higher power output.
How to troubleshoot if my Kia EV9 isn't charging at a Supercharger?
First, ensure both the NACS adapter and the Supercharger cable are firmly connected. Check the Tesla app for any error messages. Try unplugging and replugging, or moving to a different Supercharger stall.
How to know the cost of charging my Kia EV9 at a Tesla Supercharger?
The Tesla app displays the real-time cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) at each Supercharger location. Pricing can vary based on location, time of day (dynamic pricing), and whether you have a Tesla Supercharging Membership (which offers lower rates).
How to become a Tesla Supercharging member for my Kia EV9?
You can sign up for a Supercharging Membership within the Tesla app. This monthly membership typically provides a lower per-kWh charging rate, similar to what Tesla owners pay.
How to disconnect my Kia EV9 from a Tesla Supercharger?
First, stop the charging session through the Tesla app. Once the session has ended, you can then safely disconnect the Supercharger cable from your NACS adapter, and then the adapter from your EV9.
How to handle cable length issues with the Kia EV9 at Superchargers?
Due to the EV9's front passenger-side charge port, you may need to park in a way that allows the Supercharger cable to reach, sometimes by straddling two parking bays. Look for end stalls which offer more flexibility.
Here's a video from YouTube that explains how to claim your free NACS adapter for your Kia EV9:
