Rivian charging adapters explained: NACS, CCS1 and J1772
By ReferCharge. Updated 2026-08-13.
Three connector names produce most of the confusion, but model year is the shortcut: 2022–2025 R1T and R1S vehicles have a CCS1 inlet; 2026-and-newer vehicles have NACS built in. Rivian documents both sides of that split on its charging page.
Check what came with the vehicle before buying
Rivian said it would begin sending then-current owners a free NACS DC adapter in April 2024. Rivian announcement. On what is included, Rivian states: “R1 orders include a J1772 AC charging adapter, and R1 Quad orders also include a CCS1 DC charging adapter.” The DC adapter is documented for Quad orders specifically, not for Tri. Rivian's charging-equipment page. Inspect the vehicle and account before paying for a duplicate.
The three connector names
J1772: AC charging
The U.S. Department of Energy lists J1772 for Level 1 and Level 2 charging. On a CCS1 vehicle inlet, the J1772-shaped upper section is the AC connection. Source.
CCS1: J1772 plus DC pins
CCS1 adds two large DC pins below the J1772 portion, creating the larger fast-charging connector used by 2022–2025 R1 vehicles. Source.
NACS / SAE J3400: one shape for AC and DC
SAE J3400 covers a coupler that can carry either single-phase AC or DC through the same two power contacts. That shared shape does not make an AC-only adapter suitable for DC. Source.
The 2026 port flip
A 2022–2025 vehicle converts an NACS DC cable to its CCS1 inlet. A 2026+ vehicle does the reverse at an older CCS1 station and separately converts J1772 AC to NACS. Rivian's NACS DC listing, CCS1 DC listing and J1772 AC listing state the direction and compatible model years.
| Adapter direction | Vehicle | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| NACS→CCS1 DC | 2022–2025 R1T/R1S | Compatible NACS DC fast chargers |
| CCS1→NACS DC | 2026+ R1T/R1S | Legacy CCS1 DC fast chargers |
| J1772→NACS AC | 2026+ R1T/R1S | J1772 Level 1 and Level 2 chargers |
DC and AC adapters are not interchangeable
Rivian labels its NACS-to-CCS1 part for Level 3 DC fast charging only and its J1772-to-NACS part for AC only. Follow those mode restrictions and the instructions supplied with the adapter. Rivian NACS DC guide.
The candid Lectron and A2Z comparison
Rivian owner forums document a Lectron recall concern involving a plug that could release while current was flowing, then reports that some replacement or revised units became difficult to separate from the charging plug. Read the defect thread and replacement-unit report. Other owners report uneventful sessions, but the pattern is enough that Lectron belongs in the budget slot rather than first place.
The A2Z Typhoon Pro is the more common recommendation in the comparisons we found. Rivian owner comparison. A2Z's maker page lists the Typhoon Pro for compatible NACS DC chargers and CCS1 vehicles. Maker listing.
Adapter options
We do not own a Rivian, so nothing below is a hands-on review. Each pick is checked for fitment against the maker's own listed compatibility, and we say plainly where owners report problems.
Some links are affiliate links. ReferCharge may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices shown are indicative; see the maker's site. As an Amazon Associate, ReferCharge earns from qualifying purchases.
Fitment checked
A2Z Typhoon Pro NACS to CCS1 adapter
Community pickThe maker lists this adapter for CCS1-port EVs using compatible NACS DC fast chargers. It is the owner-community pick ahead of the lower-cost Lectron option.
$190
Fitment checked
Lectron Vortex Plus NACS to CCS1 adapter
Budget optionThe maker lists an interlock for this NACS-to-CCS1 DC adapter. It is the budget option; Rivian owner forums have reported latch and safety concerns with Lectron DC adapters.
$184.99
Fitment checked
EVDANCE CCS1 to NACS adapter
2026+ DCThe maker lists this as a CCS1-to-NACS DC charging adapter. Confirm that your vehicle has a NACS inlet and that the charger supports your intended session.
$79.99
Fitment checked
Lectron CCS1 to NACS adapter
AlternativeThe maker lists this adapter for charging a NACS-port vehicle from CCS1 DC equipment. Review the maker's current compatibility details before purchase.
$99.99
Fitment checked
Lectron J1772 to NACS 80A adapter
AC onlyThe maker lists this for Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging through a J1772 connector; it is not a DC fast-charging adapter.
$36.99–$45.99
For price context, Rivian's Gear Shop lists both its NACS DC Adapter and its Combo CCS1 DC Adapter at $200 (checked 2026-08-17). Prices and availability can change. Combo adapter · NACS adapter
Common questions
Is NACS always DC?
No. SAE J3400 defines the NACS coupler for either single-phase AC or DC using the same two power contacts. The adapter must still be designed for the charging mode in use. Source.
Can a 2022–2025 Rivian use J1772 without an adapter?
Yes. Rivian identifies those model years as CCS1-port vehicles; the upper portion of a CCS1 inlet accepts the J1772 AC connector. Source.
Can a 2026+ Rivian use CCS1 fast charging?
Yes, with a CCS1-to-NACS DC adapter. Rivian sells its Combo CCS1 DC Adapter for that direction. Source.
Does an adapter guarantee a charging session?
No. The station and vehicle still need compatible hardware, network access and a functioning stall; an adapter only bridges the connector. Source.