Tesla reveals dual connector

Tesla has revealed an updated Model S and Model X design featuring a new dual connector charge port system to support more than one charging standard.

The charge port on all Tesla vehicles is currently within the driver’s side taillight, but the actual connectors are different depending on the market.

Tesla’s own proprietary connector features in the US and Canada, while in Europe the electric automaker uses the standard Mennekes plug.

In China, Tesla was using the same charging system as the one it uses in Europe – until now, electrek reports.

As the EV industry is maturing, vehicle makers and charging network operators are trying to work together on open charging standards while adapting to specific requirements in different markets.

Tesla’s new dual connector charge port design appears to be the company’s solution to navigate those markets, starting with China, electrek says.

The Chinese government developed its own charging standard ‘GB’ and now Tesla has the standard built into its cars:

Electrek

says it won’t change anything about Tesla’s own Supercharger effort, but it will enable easier access for Tesla owners to the growing public charging network in China.

China has a new zero emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate to deploy five million EVs by 2020.

To support that, the government will deploy 12,000 new charging stations and is working on an incentive plan for EV buyers to install home charging stations.

Electrek

expects the Tesla solution could apply in other markets too.