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Does Ford Lightning use Tesla charger?

In short, no. The Ford F-150 Lightning uses the CCS charging standard in North America and does not natively connect to Tesla’s charging network. Ford has signaled interest in future compatibility with Tesla’s network, but there is no Tesla charger support for the Lightning today.

Current charging standard for the Ford F-150 Lightning

Below are the key points about how the Lightning charges today and where it can plug in.

Connector and port: The F-150 Lightning uses the CCS (Combined Charging System) Type 1 connector for DC fast charging and AC charging in North America.

DC fast charging speeds: When plugged into compatible CCS DC fast chargers, the Lightning can achieve charging speeds up to roughly 150 kW, depending on battery state of charge and charger capabilities.

AC charging and onboard hardware: The truck supports standard AC charging via a home or public outlet, with onboard charging capacity that enables typical Level 2 charging rates (varies by trim and options).

Network compatibility: It works with major U.S. networks that support CCS, such as Electrify America, ChargePoint, EVgo, and others; it cannot directly use Tesla Supercharger stations without a Tesla-specific adapter or network integration, which is not part of the Lightning’s current setup.

Taken together, these points mean the Lightning is designed around CCS for both daytime and long-distance charging, aligning with most non-Tesla EVs in North America.

Tesla network compatibility and future plans

Understanding whether Ford, and the Lightning in particular, could access Tesla’s network involves looking at current status and announced plans.

Tesla’s charging standard: Tesla uses the North American Charging Standard (NACS), which is not the same as CCS and requires compatible hardware and network access.

Current Lightning access: As of now, there is no official, built-in way for the F-150 Lightning to charge at Tesla Superchargers. Access would require hardware and software changes, or participation in any pilot programs that specifically enable this integration for CCS-equipped vehicles.

Ford’s stated plans: Ford has signaled an interest in embracing Tesla’s NACS in future vehicles and, in some announcements, has discussed enabling access to Tesla’s network for new models starting around 2025. This does not retroactively apply to existing Lightning trucks.

Retrofit considerations: Any move to allow Lightning access to NACS would likely require a hardware change (port/plug) and software integration, not simply a software update. Until Ford formally enables this for the Lightning, CCS remains the standard.

In short, Ford’s interest in NACS reflects a broader industry shift toward cross-network charging, but it has not translated into current Tesla charger support for the F-150 Lightning. Owners should plan for CCS-compatible charging today, with potential future network access dependent on Ford’s product roadmap and deployment timelines.

What this means for Lightning owners

For today’s users, practical guidance is clear: you can rely on CCS charging networks for fast and convenient charging across the U.S. and Canada. Tesla Supercharger access is not part of the Lightning’s standard charging experience yet, and any future changes would come via Ford’s announced plans and updates to vehicle hardware/software.

What to watch going forward

Industry-wide moves toward a single charging standard vs. multi-standard compatibility.

Ford’s official timelines and any announced retrofit options if they enable NACS access for the Lightning.

Pilot programs or partnerships that might allow limited Tesla network access for Ford or other brands before a full rollout.

As the charging ecosystem evolves, owners should stay tuned to Ford’s communications and network-provider updates for the latest on cross-network charging opportunities.

Summary

The Ford F-150 Lightning currently relies on CCS for charging and does not natively use Tesla’s charging network. Ford has signaled plans to explore Tesla NACS compatibility in the future, but there is no Lightning-specific support for Tesla Superchargers today. For now, Lightning owners should plan to use CCS-compatible charging stations, with attention to any official Ford announcements about future network access.

Can I use a Tesla charger on my Ford?

Yes, Ford EVs can use Tesla Superchargers by using a special adapter provided by Ford, and starting in 2025, new Ford EVs will come with the necessary port for direct access. Ford drivers must request and use the Ford-branded Fast Charging Adapter (NACS) to connect to compatible Tesla Superchargers in the US and Canada. Some Tesla stations also have a built-in adapter called a Magic Dock, which can be used without the separate Ford adapter.

This video demonstrates how to charge a Ford EV at a Tesla Supercharger using an adapter: 54sRose BabyYouTube · Feb 2, 2025
For current Ford EV owners

Request an adapter: Request a complimentary Fast Charging Adapter (NACS) from Ford.
Find compatible chargers: Use the Ford app to find and navigate to designated Tesla Superchargers that are compatible with your adapter.
Use the adapter: Connect the Fast Charging Adapter to your vehicle's charging port, and then plug the Tesla Supercharger cable into the adapter.
Park with care: Be mindful of how you park, as Ford vehicles may require more space to reach a Supercharger cable.
Check for compatibility: Not all Tesla Superchargers are compatible with non-Tesla EVs. Not all early adapters were safe, so ensure you have a current adapter and follow the instructions from Ford.

For new Ford EVs (starting in 2025)

Direct access: New Ford models built starting in 2025 will come with the Tesla-designed North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, allowing direct charging at most Superchargers without an adapter.
Supercharger network access: These new EVs will be able to access over 12,000 Tesla Supercharger stations in the US and Canada.
Payment experience: The charging experience for Ford drivers will be similar to that of Tesla owners, with payments handled through the Ford mobile app.

You can watch this video to learn how to use an adapter and charge a Ford Mustang Mach-E at a Tesla Supercharger: 59sThe Electric Duo (Patrick & Liv)YouTube · Mar 5, 2024

Does the Tesla charger work on Ford Lightning?

Ford electric vehicles (EVs) can charge at designated Tesla Superchargers in the United States and Canada with a Fast Charging Adapter.

How long does it take to charge a Ford Lightning on a Tesla charger?

Charging Power – 106 kW. Energy Added – 37.4 kWh. Time Charged – 21 minutes.

Which charger does Ford Lightning use?

The Ford Mobile Power Cord and Ford Connected Charge Station use the J1772 charging connector. They can charge all J1772-compatible EVs. Note: Tesla EVs will require an adapter to use these chargers. The Ford Charge Station Pro uses the CCS1 charging connector.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.