Hyundai Tesla Charging Port: Issues and Shortcomings

Testing Hyundai's New Tesla Charging Compatibility

A fortunate circumstance, I mused, as I maneuvered the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 into the final available space at a Tesla Supercharging station located in Palm Springs.

The electric vehicle didn't genuinely require any additional charge. However, this updated, fully-electric compact SUV features the Tesla North American Charging Standard port; it was an opportune moment to evaluate how effectively Hyundai would integrate with the Tesla Supercharging infrastructure.

An Unexpected Disconnect

The experience revealed a discrepancy – specifically, in reach. While Hyundai isn’t solely responsible, the situation highlighted how a conceptually sound idea can encounter practical limitations.

I backed into the parking bay, opened the charging port situated on the passenger-rear quarter panel, and reached for the charging cable, which was housed in the cabinet positioned on the driver’s side of the vehicle.

Unfortunately, the cable’s length proved insufficient.

I faced a choice: wait for another Tesla to become available and potentially occupy two parking spaces, or utilize the vehicle’s navigation system to locate a CCS-equipped charging station and employ the included adapter.

Given my ample battery reserve, I continued my journey. However, others may not be so fortunate.

Understanding the Charging Standards

The Combined Charging System, or CCS, was the prevailing standard in North America, utilized by all automakers except Tesla. Tesla had developed its proprietary port and charging station, known as the North American Charging Standard, or NACS.

In May 2023, a shift began as Ford reached an agreement granting its EV owners access to over 12,000 Tesla Superchargers throughout the U.S. and Canada. General Motors soon followed, and within six months, nearly every major automaker had established a similar arrangement with Tesla.

Initially, access would be facilitated through a Tesla adapter, but most manufacturers – including Hyundai and Kia – also committed to incorporating NACS charging technology into their future electric vehicles.

The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 is among these vehicles.

Addressing the Issue

It’s important to note that this issue isn’t entirely attributable to Hyundai. The Ioniq 5 has consistently featured its charging port on the rear passenger side, and relocating it would represent a significant expense.

Tesla indicates that the problem will be mitigated with the deployment of its V4 charging stations, which will include longer cables. However, Tesla’s website also states, “we encourage all vehicle manufacturers to standardize charge port locations to the rear driver side or front passenger side.”

Owners of the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 may find greater success utilizing CCS stations and the provided adapter. Hyundai reports the Ioniq 5 can achieve an 80% charge from 10% in approximately 20 minutes at a CCS charger.

The same charging process may take up to 30 minutes at an NACS charger.

Hyundai's Support and Future Plans

Hyundai is offering incentives to ease the transition. Buyers of the 2025 Ioniq 5 can choose between a $400 charging credit or a complimentary ChargePoint home charger.

Furthermore, owners of older Hyundai EVs with a native CCS port can obtain a free NACS adapter through the MyHyundai owner portal, starting in March.

Hyundai owners will also benefit from access to the forthcoming Ionna charging network. This network, projected to encompass 30,000 NACS and CCS charging points by 2030, is a collaborative effort involving BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, Kia, Stellantis, and Toyota.

2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5: Enhanced Battery Capacity, Extended Range, and New Trim Levels

The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 will be available in SE, SEL, XRT, and Limited trims, offered with either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations. While the vehicle’s overall design remains consistent with prior model years, significant updates have been implemented, beginning with improvements to the battery technology.

The standard range battery pack now boasts a capacity of 63 kWh, representing a 5 kWh increase. Furthermore, the extended range option has been upgraded to 84 kWh, a gain of 6.6 kWh. Range estimates will vary based on the selected drivetrain, battery size, and trim level.

Drivers can anticipate a minimum range of 245 miles, with the potential to achieve up to 318 miles in a rear-wheel-drive Ioniq 5 equipped with the larger battery pack.

Power delivery is also differentiated across the lineup. The base configuration produces 168 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This increases to 225 horsepower when paired with the extended range battery.

The highest performance is achieved with the all-wheel-drive system and the larger battery, delivering 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque.

Key Updates for 2025

• Battery Capacity Increases: Both standard and extended range batteries have been enlarged.
• Extended Range: Maximum range is now up to 318 miles.
• Varied Power Outputs: Horsepower and torque figures depend on the chosen configuration.

These enhancements to the 2025 Ioniq 5 aim to provide drivers with greater flexibility and performance. The increased battery capacity directly translates to longer driving ranges, while the varied power outputs cater to a wider range of driving preferences.

Enhancements in Technology

The 2025 Ioniq 5 incorporates several technological advancements.

A notable improvement is the enhanced digital key functionality, now operable even with the phone secured within a pocket or purse.

This upgrade provides convenience for drivers managing multiple items, such as children, groceries, or beverages.

Connectivity and Updates

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now supported wirelessly across the entire Ioniq 5 model range.

Furthermore, all models benefit from the inclusion of over-the-air (OTA) update capabilities.

Innovative Payment System

Hyundai Pay introduces a streamlined payment solution for owners.

This system allows users to link their credit card directly to the vehicle’s infotainment system, enabling automatic payments for pre-booked off-street parking.

Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems

Drivers will experience enhanced safety features with updates to the blind-spot collision avoidance system.

The parking assistance features have also been refined for improved functionality.

Exploring Off-Road Capability

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 now offers an XRT trim for drivers seeking a more adventurous electric SUV experience.

This particular model is engineered for light off-road excursions, featuring a one-inch suspension lift and 29-inch Continental CrossContact ATR tires to enhance performance on unpaved surfaces like dirt and gravel.

Terrain Management System

A dedicated Terrain button on the steering wheel provides access to driving modes optimized for various conditions, including Snow, Mud, and Sand.

During testing on a dirt course, the vehicle demonstrated a playful character capable of eliciting a positive driving experience.

Sand Mode Functionality

The Sand mode adjusts the regenerative braking characteristics to prevent automatic deceleration upon lifting the accelerator pedal.

Furthermore, it distributes torque evenly – a 50/50 split – to maximize traction.

While Sand mode doesn’t completely disable traction control, full deactivation requires manual intervention via the traction control button.

Handling and Limitations

The Ioniq 5 XRT allows for controlled slides when cornering, thanks to its instant electric torque.

However, the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), while effective on pavement, can hinder traction and increase stopping distances off-road by preventing the build-up of dirt in front of the tires.

Adjustments to the ABS system within the drive modes would be a beneficial improvement.

The vehicle’s responsiveness allows for quick acceleration out of turns, creating a dynamic driving experience.

Ground Clearance and Geometry

It’s important to note that the XRT is not designed for extreme rock crawling.

With a total ground clearance of seven inches, it falls short of the Subaru Forester Wilderness by two inches.

Although its off-road geometry surpasses that of the Toyota RAV4 Woodland Edition, it’s best suited for navigating minor obstacles and uneven terrain.

The 19.8-degree approach angle was tested during the drive, resulting in minor cosmetic damage to the XRT’s unique front fascia.

Protection and Towing

The XRT does not include specialized underbody protection for the battery pack.

However, it boasts a respectable 30-degree departure angle and is equipped with two front tow hooks for recovery purposes.

The Strengths of the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The Ioniq 5 continues to deliver a pleasurable driving experience, characterized by brisk acceleration, balanced handling, and a smooth ride quality.

A portion of the initial drive involved navigating roads at elevated altitudes, providing a challenging test for the all-season tires in slushy snow conditions. The vehicle maintained consistent grip, instilling confidence even for drivers unfamiliar with winter driving.

The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 has a starting price of $43,975, which includes the destination charge for the base SE model featuring rear-wheel drive and the standard battery pack.

The XRT trim, designed for off-road capability, is available for $56,875. A fully equipped Limited trim with all-wheel drive reaches a price point of $59,575.

The Ford Mustang Mach-E presents a competitive option with a similar starting price and range. Notably, all Mach-E models come standard with BlueCruise, a hands-free highway driving assist system, though a subscription is required for its use.

Hyundai currently does not offer a comparable system to BlueCruise.

For those drawn to a futuristic aesthetic, the Kia EV6 stands as a compelling alternative, particularly for drivers prioritizing performance. The EV6 GT AWD trim boasts 576 horsepower and 545 lb-ft of torque.

Identifying significant drawbacks with the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 proves difficult. This updated model preserves its excellent on-road manners and introduces added versatility with the new XRT trim level.

However, despite the inclusion of a North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, owners might find themselves opting to avoid Tesla Superchargers.