Toyota bZ4X & Subaru Solterra 2026: NACS Charger, Plug & Charge
Toyota bZ, bZ4X, and Subaru Solterra are now officially integrated into the Tesla Supercharger network in North America. Models from 2026 onwards will include a NACS port and support Plug & Charge; 2023–2025 models will require an adapter, which Toyota provides free of charge, while Solterra owners will have to purchase separately.
The Toyota bZ, the older Toyota bZ4X, and the Subaru Solterra have officially been granted access to the Tesla Supercharger network in North America, unlocking access to over 25,000 DC fast charging stations in the United States and Canada. Models 2026 and older will have NACS ports built-in and support Plug & Charge, while 2023–2025 models will require an adapter and will not support Plug & Charge.
Access Supercharger: Differences between the 2026 and 2023–2025 models
The switch to the NACS connector standard significantly reduces friction for Toyota and Subaru users during fast charging. However, the experience varies considerably depending on the model year:
- 2026 models (Toyota bZ, Subaru Solterra): Integrated NACS charging port, plugs directly into the Supercharger. Supports Plug & Charge when the user has set up payment in the Toyota or SubaruConnect app.
- 2023–2025 models (Toyota bZ4X, Subaru Solterra): These vehicles use a CCS1 port, so a CCS1–NACS adapter is required to connect the supercharger. Plug & Charge is not supported; owners must initiate a charging session via a card or mobile app.
NACS Adapter: Toyota and Subaru's Policy
The adapter policy is what differentiates the user experience between the two Japanese manufacturers in the older car segment:
- Toyota bZ4X 2023–2025: Toyota confirms it will provide NACS adapters free of charge. Starting in November, the company will send letters instructing owners to contact their dealerships to receive them.
- Subaru Solterra 2023–2025: Owners will have to purchase a certified NACS adapter themselves, expected to be available this fall.
For the 2026 model year, Toyota electric vehicles will come with standard adapters for J1772 (Levels 1 & 2) and CCS2; the 2026 Subaru Solterra will also come with adapters for J1772 and CCS, according to published information.
Plug & Charge: A simplified payment process
The Plug & Charge feature on 2026 models simplifies the charging process at charging stations. When the payment method is pre-configured in the Toyota or SubaruConnect app, users simply plug in the charging cable, and the charging session automatically starts and charges automatically, without the need to swipe a card or manually enter information.
Quick comparison table of charging configurations
| Car model | Model year | Car charging port | Adapter for use with Supercharger | Plug & Charge | Notes/Policies |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota bZ | 2026 | NACS | Not needed when using a Supercharger. | Have | Includes standard adapter for J1772 (Level 1 & 2) and CCS2 |
| Subaru Solterra | 2026 | NACS | Not needed when using a Supercharger. | Have | Adapters for J1772 and CCS are included. |
| Toyota bZ4X | 2023–2025 | CCS1 | CCS1–NACS adapter required. | Are not | Toyota is providing free NACS adapters; instructions for receiving them are available from November. |
| Subaru Solterra | 2023–2025 | CCS1 | CCS1–NACS adapter required. | Are not | Owners can purchase their own certified NACS adapters, which are expected to be available this fall. |
Practical experience: fewer steps, higher reliability.
The integration of NACS and Plug & Charge on the 2026 model eliminates the need to carry adapters and perform app-based operations each time a fast charge is needed. Users can expect a streamlined process, reduced risk of connection errors due to intermediate adapters, and the advantage of the widespread coverage of the Supercharger network in the United States and Canada.
For 2023–2025 models, the adapter remains essential. Differences in policy (Toyota provides it for free, Subaru requires owners to purchase it themselves) directly impact ownership costs and availability. Even without Plug & Charge, using an app/card to initiate a charging session still ensures network access.
Market impact and standardization process
Toyota and Subaru's decision to join the Supercharger network marks a milestone in the process toward a unified charging standard in North America. These two companies are among the later entrants in the transition, while according to Tesla's website (quoted from InsideEVs), other major brands like BMW and Volkswagen are still on the waiting list for access.
A quick look at the key points
- Access the official Supercharger for Toyota bZ/bZ4X and Subaru Solterra in North America.
- 2026 model: Integrated NACS port, supports Plug & Charge.
- 2023–2025 models: require CCS1–NACS adapter, no Plug & Charge.
- Toyota is providing a free adapter for the 2023–2025 bZ4X; Solterra 2023–2025 owners must purchase a certified adapter separately.
Overall, the switch to NACS and the opening of Supercharger access directly benefits the charging experience for Toyota and Subaru owners, particularly noticeable on 2026 models.
