What Ford's backing of Tesla chargers means for the future of EVs

Illustration: Gabriella Turrisi/Axios

Ford's unexpected embrace of Tesla's charging technology dramatically escalates the battle for the future of electric vehicle (EV) charging — the next great Lightning vs. USB-C or VHS vs. Betamax-style standardization war.

Why it matters: EVs won't go mainstream until refueling them is as simple as filling up a gas-powered car.

Catch up quick: Ford and Tesla announced Thursday that Ford EV owners will have access to more than 12,000 Tesla Superchargers in the U.S. and Canada starting early next year.

What they're saying: "This completely throws a stick into the spokes of standardization," said Chargeway CEO Matt Teske, whose company aims to simplify the charging experience for consumers.

The big picture: Everyone wants a universal charging experience, no matter whose charger they plug into.

Be smart: One reason Tesla opened up its network to other brands is to qualify for a share of the $5 billion the U.S. government is doling out to build a national charging network.

Yes, but: Tesla owners aren't happy that they'll now have to jockey with non-Tesla EVs at already crowded Superchargers.

What to watch: Whether other carmakers and charging companies shift toward Tesla's technology.

The intrigue: Even Ford is being cagey about its future vehicles, saying "there will be a transition period" as it moves toward the Tesla standard.

The bottom line: It's a reminder that we're still in the early days of the EV movement, and that industry standards could evolve.