Every 2026 Cadillac Optiq To Feature Native NACS Charge Port

It was initially believed that only the high-performance 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V would feature a native NACS charge port. However, we have since learned that each and every 2026 Cadillac Optiq will be equipped with the NACS, or North American Charging Standard, a charge port originally developed by Tesla.

Until recently, the Combined Charging System (CCS) had been the industry standard for non-Tesla EVs. However, thanks to Tesla’s expansive Supercharger network as well as the smaller and lighter design of the NACS, automakers have decided to make the switch to NACS. Cadillac first announced its intent to switch over to NACS back in 2024.

“Integrating the native NACS port into our vehicle architecture is an important step forward, reflecting our leadership in engineering and our commitment to providing our customers with more charging options,” said Optiq-V chief engineer John Cockburn.

According to Cadillac, the switch to NACS will provide customers with “direct access to 21,500+ reliable and convenient fast charging options across North America.” Moving forward, Cadillac Optiq owners will have the ability to use Tesla Supercharger and IONNA charging stations without needing an adapter. On the flip side, owners will now need an adapter to use most Electrify America and ChargePoint stations, which utilize CCS plugs.

While the Optiq is set to feature NACS for the 2026 model year – along with other changes, including a new rear-wheel-drive setup as standard – that isn’t the case for the luxury marque’s entire EV portfolio. For reference, Cadillac has already confirmed that the Lyriq-V, Vistiq, and Escalade IQ and IQL will all feature CCS ports for 2026. That said, we expect these nameplates to follow suit in switching to NACS sooner rather than later.

It’s worth noting that Cadillac isn’t alone in the switch from CCS to NACS, as many other automakers also making the switch. These include Rivian, Volvo, Polestar, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, and Lucid, to name a few. In fact, some automakers, such as Hyundai and Kia, are already selling vehicles with a native NACS port, while others, like Ford, have also elected to provide NACS adapters to customers in preparation to adopt a native port in future EVs. For its part, Cadillac is also offering owners of its CSS-equipped EVs a NACS adapter. These efforts should make it easier for owners to find charging stations throughout the country.