Is the Cadillac Lyriq NACS or CCS

The 2024 Cadillac Lyriq is Cadillac's flagship electric vehicle, and it has attracted a lot of attention for its stunning design, cutting-edge technology, and impressive performance. One question for many potential buyers is whether the Lyriq uses the North American Charging Standard (NACS) or the Combined Charging System (CCS).

Cadillac Lyriq Charging: NACS or CCS?

The 2024 Cadillac Lyriq has adopted the traditional CCS standard. Starting in 2025, the Lyriq will come equipped with the NACS port. So drivers won't need an adapter to charge at a Tesla charger. 

What Is NACS (North American Charging Standard)？

NACS is the charging standard used by Tesla vehicles and, more recently, by many other electric vehicle manufacturers. Tesla’s Supercharger network uses the NACS connector, widely praised for its reliability and fast charging speeds.

What Is CCS (Combined Charging System)？

CCS is the charging standard primarily used by most other electric vehicles, including GM’s previous electric models and many other automakers like Ford, Audi, BMW, and more. It’s the most common charging standard in Europe, and in North America, it’s the standard for most public charging stations.

Why Did Cadillac Switch to NACS for the Lyriq?

Cadillac’s decision to embrace NACS for the Lyriq comes down to several key factors:

1. Access to Tesla’s Supercharger Network

One of the main reasons Cadillac switched to NACS is to leverage Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network. The Supercharger network is known for its reliability and fast charging capabilities, offering a superior experience for EV owners. With NACS, Lyriq owners will have access to Tesla's Superchargers across North America, significantly improving the convenience of long-distance travel and reducing range anxiety.

2. Future-Proofing

As Tesla continues to dominate the EV space and expand its Supercharger network, the growing trend is for more automakers to adopt NACS to ensure compatibility with this robust charging infrastructure. By adopting NACS, Cadillac is positioning the Lyriq for long-term success in an evolving market where fast, accessible charging is critical.

3. Simplified Charging Experience

The NACS connector is smaller and more user-friendly compared to CCS, making it easier for Lyriq owners to handle. The streamlined design is another plus for those who prefer a more intuitive charging experience.

What Does This Mean for Lyriq Owners?

For Cadillac Lyriq owners, the switch to NACS brings several important advantages and considerations:

Easier Access to Charging Stations

With NACS, Lyriq owners can plug into Tesla Superchargers as well as any other NACS-compatible charging stations that may become more prevalent in the future. 

DC Fast Charging

The Lyriq, like many modern electric vehicles, offers DC fast-charging capabilities. With NACS, owners can take advantage of the Supercharger network’s fast charging speeds, which are often faster than many CCS-equipped chargers, resulting in reduced charging times during long road trips.

Adaptors for CCS Stations

Although the Lyriq uses NACS, drivers will still encounter CCS chargers in some areas, particularly on public charging networks. However, Cadillac has hinted that owners may be able to use an adapter to plug into CCS stations. This ensures that even though the vehicle is designed with NACS, it will still have broader charging infrastructure access.

The Future of EV Charging: NACS or CCS?

The shift toward NACS raises an important question: Will CCS continue to dominate, or will NACS become the new standard in North America?

While CCS is still widely used by many automakers, the growing adoption of NACS by major manufacturers such as GM (Cadillac's parent company), Ford, and Rivian signals a shift in the industry. As more manufacturers move to adopt NACS, and as Tesla continues to expand its Supercharger network, NACS may become the future standard for EVs in North America.

Conclusion

The 2025 Cadillac Lyriq’s decision to adopt the NACS charging standard is a strategic move aimed at providing owners with access to one of the most extensive and reliable fast-charging networks available today. By adopting NACS, Cadillac ensures that the Lyriq will benefit from fast, efficient charging and a superior long-distance driving experience. While CCS is still the most common standard, NACS is quickly becoming the future of EV charging in North America.