A recently introduced NACS to CCS1 extension cable, though promising to alleviate common issues faced by non-Tesla electric vehicle owners at Tesla Supercharger stations, has been met with skepticism from experts. This innovative product, aiming to tackle both cable length limitations and compatibility challenges, reportedly falls short in critical areas, particularly concerning user safety and charging efficiency. The findings suggest that while the concept is appealing, the current iteration of the device is not yet ready for the broader market, emphasizing the need for robust safety features and improved performance standards in such charging accessories.
Details of the Charging Accessory Evaluation
In a recent assessment, charging expert Tom Moloughney scrutinized a new five-foot extension cable from Hansshow, designed to bridge the gap between Tesla's Supercharger infrastructure and non-Tesla electric vehicles (EVs). This product uniquely combines a NACS (North American Charging Standard) to CCS1 adapter with an extension cord, a seemingly ideal solution for EV models like the Rivian R1T, Rivian R1S, and Ford F-150 Lightning, which often struggle with the short cable reach of Tesla's V3 Superchargers and require a CCS1 connection. Priced at approximately $600, this accessory is currently the sole commercially available NACS to CCS1 extension of its kind.
Despite its dual functionality, Moloughney's evaluation, conducted at various Supercharger locations, unveiled several significant drawbacks. A primary safety concern highlighted is the NACS connector's release button, which only detaches the extension from the Supercharger cable without terminating the charging session. This design flaw poses a substantial risk of electrical arcing if the cable is disconnected while power is still flowing, potentially endangering users. Although Hansshow's instructions advise users to stop charging via the vehicle's port or the Tesla app before disconnecting, Moloughney pointed out the common tendency for users to disregard manuals, advocating for a more intuitive and safer design where the release button automatically halts the charging process.
Beyond safety, performance issues were also observed. The extension cable is rated for a maximum of 250 amps and 1,000 volts, yielding a theoretical maximum power of 250 kilowatts. However, many modern EVs demand higher amperage, often exceeding 500 amps, to achieve optimal charging speeds. Testing revealed that charging a Ford F-150 Lightning from 10% to 50% using the Hansshow extension took 30 minutes, whereas a standard NACS to CCS1 adapter completed the same task in just 24 minutes. Furthermore, attempts to charge a Gen1 Rivian R1S proved problematic; the vehicle repeatedly stopped charging due to the cable overheating, displaying error messages, or simply refusing to continue, despite working correctly with a regular NACS to CCS1 adapter at the same location. These inconsistencies underscore the cable's limitations in meeting the diverse power requirements of contemporary EVs.
This report underscores the nascent stage of such multi-functional charging accessories. While companies like A2Z are also developing extension cords, their NACS to NACS version is still in development. The broader implication for EV owners is the potential voiding of vehicle warranties if unapproved third-party charging equipment leads to damage. Therefore, a thorough understanding of product specifications, adherence to safe operating procedures, and consultation with certified experts are paramount before integrating such new technologies into personal charging routines.
From a journalist's perspective, this situation underscores the critical balance between innovation and safety in the rapidly evolving EV ecosystem. While the demand for versatile charging solutions is undeniably high, particularly as more non-Tesla EVs gain access to the extensive Supercharger network, companies must prioritize rigorous testing and incorporate fail-safe mechanisms into their products. The findings regarding Hansshow's extension cable serve as a stark reminder that convenience should never come at the expense of safety or compromise vehicle integrity. For consumers, the takeaway is clear: exercise caution and conduct diligent research before investing in aftermarket charging accessories. The industry, meanwhile, should aim for universal standards and integrated safety features that protect users and vehicles alike, fostering trust and accelerating the adoption of electric mobility without unnecessary risks.
The evolution of electric vehicle batteries has been remarkable, witnessing significant advancements in efficiency and affordability over the past decade. Despite these strides, R.J. Scaringe, CEO of Rivian, believes there is still ample opportunity for substantial improvement. During a recent interview, Scaringe revealed that Rivian's primary objective in battery development is to enable quicker charging times while preserving the vehicle's range. Achieving this balance is a complex engineering challenge, as increased charging speed often comes at the expense of energy storage capacity. For instance, while some Chinese manufacturers have demonstrated exceptionally fast-charging vehicles, these often possess limited range, underscoring the trade-offs involved in current battery technology. Furthermore, rapid charging can detrimentally affect a battery's lifespan, potentially reducing its original capacity by a notable percentage over numerous charge cycles.
To address these challenges, Rivian is exploring novel approaches, including modifications to battery chemistry, such as the incorporation of silicon anodes, specifically tailored for enhanced fast-charging capabilities. Beyond chemical innovations, the company is also implementing structural improvements to battery packs to reduce manufacturing costs. A prime example is the battery design for Rivian's upcoming R2 crossover, which utilizes larger, single-layer cells that also serve as structural components of the vehicle. This integrated design significantly cuts down on overall cost, as, in Scaringe's view, any material or component not directly contributing to the battery's chemical function represents an overhead. While the industry buzzes about next-generation technologies like solid-state batteries, Scaringe remains cautious, suggesting that their commercial viability might be overstated. He points out that despite years of research by numerous companies, large-scale production of solid-state batteries has yet to materialize. Instead, he maintains that the established high-nickel and lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) chemistries will continue to dominate the EV market due to their proven scalability.
Rivian currently employs both high-nickel and LFP batteries across its product line, with Scaringe commending LFP for its durability and cost-effectiveness. However, he notes that LFP batteries, despite their growing adoption in China and Europe, face significant trade barriers in the United States, which largely restrict their widespread use. This situation highlights how geopolitical factors and trade policies can profoundly influence technological adoption and market dynamics in the automotive industry. The continuous pursuit of faster, more durable, and more affordable battery solutions is critical for the broader acceptance and success of electric vehicles, paving the way for a more sustainable transportation future.
The landscape of electric vehicles is rapidly evolving, and the 2026 GMC Sierra EV stands as a testament to this progress, particularly in the realm of heavy-duty performance. While electric motors inherently offer impressive torque at zero RPM, translating to excellent towing potential, the actual towing capacity of the Sierra EV models varies considerably. From a formidable 12,500 pounds to a more constrained 8,500 pounds, prospective owners must scrutinize the specific configurations to ensure the vehicle meets their hauling demands. This divergence emphasizes that not all electric pickups are designed with identical capabilities, necessitating careful consideration of trim levels and optional features.
Unpacking the 2026 GMC Sierra EV's Towing Prowess and Range Considerations
In the autumn of 2024, GMC subtly introduced its latest electric marvels, the 2025 Elevation and AT4 Sierra EV models. These groundbreaking vehicles share the advanced BT1 platform with the record-setting Chevy Silverado EV, a design choice that promises significant performance. The base Elevation Extended Range trim of this formidable electric truck boasts an impressive 12,500-pound towing capacity, surpassing the top-tier half-ton RAM pickup by a notable 1,170 pounds. However, a critical distinction lies in the selection of options; opting for the Elevation Standard Range variant drastically reduces the towing capability by 4,000 pounds, settling at 8,500 pounds.
A detailed examination of the 2026 GMC Sierra EV's towing capacities reveals the following variations:
- Elevation Standard Range: 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg)
- Elevation Extended Range: 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg)
- AT4 Extended Range: 12,300 lbs (5,579 kg)
- AT4 Max Range: 10,200 lbs (4,627 kg)
- Denali Standard Range: 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg)
- Denali Extended Range: 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg)
- Denali Extended Range with Denali Reserve Package: 10,200 lbs (4,627 kg)
- Denali Max Range: 10,200 lbs (4,627 kg)
Beyond the raw numbers, effective and safe towing with any vehicle, electric or otherwise, demands a comprehensive understanding of best practices. Proper trailer loading for optimal stability, meticulous checks of tires, brakes, and lighting, and the application of sound driving techniques are paramount for road safety. While GMC integrates advanced features such as Tow/Haul mode, Integrated Trailer Brake Control, and Trailer Sway Control to assist drivers, these aids are complements, not substitutes, for an alert and cautious operator. Due diligence and thorough preparation are indispensable before embarking on any towing journey.
The impact of towing on an electric vehicle's range is a frequently discussed topic. Heavy loads, especially those near the vehicle's maximum capacity, will inevitably reduce the driving range. This phenomenon is not unique to electric powertrains; internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles also experience decreased fuel efficiency under similar conditions. However, due to the widespread visibility of traditional fueling stations versus the still-developing electric charging infrastructure, range anxiety can feel more pronounced for EV owners. A key strategy to mitigate range reduction when towing is to maintain a moderate speed. Aerodynamic drag, which significantly affects EV range, increases exponentially with speed. Therefore, traveling at 55 mph, as opposed to 70 mph, can lead to substantially improved range performance, as demonstrated by Chevrolet's own experiments. While towing with an EV involves certain trade-offs, the 2026 GMC Sierra EV offers compelling advantages: modern safety features, sophisticated trailer controls, silent power delivery, and immediate torque, all packaged in a vehicle capable of pulling up to 12,500 pounds. As charging networks expand and electric truck technology continues to advance, the outdated notion that "EVs can't tow" will increasingly be dispelled, cementing the Sierra EV's position as a serious contender in the work-truck segment.
From a journalist's vantage point, this detailed insight into the 2026 GMC Sierra EV's towing capabilities is profoundly illuminating. It debunks the prevalent misconception that electric vehicles are inherently inferior for heavy-duty tasks. The nuanced differences in towing capacities across various trims highlight a critical point for consumers: the 'electric' label alone isn't enough; careful selection based on intended use is paramount. This move by GMC not only signifies a robust leap forward in electric truck technology but also underscores the growing maturity of the EV market. As the infrastructure for electric charging continues to broaden, and as manufacturers like GMC refine their offerings, we are witnessing the gradual but undeniable shift towards electric vehicles becoming a viable, and often superior, option for a wide array of applications, including the demanding world of towing and hauling. This development encourages a more informed public discourse about EV capabilities, moving beyond generalizations to appreciate the specific strengths and considerations of advanced electric powertrucks.