Supercharger Access Quietly Goes Live
BMW had long promised Tesla Supercharger access for its electric models by early 2025, later pushing that target to the end of the year. With only days left on the calendar, the rollout has officially arrived. As of this week, most BMW EVs can now charge on Tesla’s Supercharger network, giving owners far more flexibility on long-distance trips.
The launch comes after months of uncertainty. BMW confirmed the delay late last year, noting that software coordination and compatibility checks required more time. But the company has now activated access for many of its i-branded EVs—though with important caveats.
CCS Ports Mean Adapters Are Still Required
Unlike some newer EVs, BMW models on the road today still rely on CCS connectors for DC fast charging. That means owners must use a NACS adapter to plug into a Tesla Supercharger until BMW transitions to native NACS ports beginning in 2026.
Most recent i4, i5, i7, and iX models support Supercharging now, but compatibility differs by model year. Some vehicles require dealer-installed updates, and plug-and-charge functionality is still inconsistent.
BMW Supercharging Compatibility Overview
Below is a rewritten version of the compatibility table, preserving accuracy while using simpler language:
BMW Supercharging Compatibility Matrix
Model years, Supercharger availability, and plug-and-charge support.
| Model | Start | End | Supercharger Access | Adapter / Notes | Plug-and-Charge | Additional Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| i3 | 2014 | 2021 | Yes* | Only with Magic Dock (CCS) sites | No | Legacy model; limited support |
| i4 | 2022 | 2023 | Yes | Standard access | No | – |
| i4 | 2024 | 2024 | Yes | Requires dealer software update | Yes* | Update enables full features |
| i4 | 2025 | 2026 | Yes | Full access | Yes | – |
| i5 | 2024 | 2025 | Yes | Full access | Yes | – |
| i5 | 2026 | – | No* | Support planned for Spring 2026 | Yes | Access delayed |
| i7 | 2022 | 2023 | Yes | Requires update | Yes* | Dealer visit required |
| i7 | 2024 | 2025 | Yes | Full access | Yes | – |
| i7 | 2026 | – | Yes | Full access | Yes | – |
| iX | 2022 | 2023 | Yes | Standard access | No | – |
| iX | 2024 | 2025 | Yes | Some builds require updates | Yes* | Cars built 3/1/23–6/30/23 need software |
| iX | 2026 | – | No* | Support expected Spring 2026 | Yes | Planned update |
i3 Owners Are Left Out
The quirky BMW i3—produced from 2014 to 2021—will not receive Supercharger access. Given the car’s age and limited long-range capability, BMW has not pursued compatibility upgrades, meaning i3 drivers must continue relying on CCS infrastructure.
A Step Toward NACS Integration
The adapter phase is temporary. BMW plans to move to native NACS charging ports starting with the 2026 i5 M60, aligning with a shift already underway across much of the U.S. EV market.
Still, the milestone is significant for BMW owners. Gaining access to Tesla’s network has become a major benchmark for EV brands, and the addition should ease range anxiety—especially during peak travel periods.
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