You’re standing in the Honda dealership. The Prologue looks incredible. The price is right. But there’s that nagging voice in your head: “What about charging?”
You’ve heard about different plugs, adapters, and confusing acronyms like CCS1, J1772, and NACS. Your neighbor has a Tesla and uses Superchargers. Your coworker bought some other EV and complains about finding chargers. And you’re wondering if you’ll need three different adapters just to charge this thing.
Here’s the thing: the Honda Prologue’s charging situation is actually pretty straightforward once you understand what you’re working with. It’s got a CCS1 combo port that handles both your everyday home charging and your road trip fast charging, no adapter juggling required. And with Honda’s new partnership with Tesla, you’ll soon have access to over 23,500 Supercharger locations.
Let’s break down exactly what charger type the Prologue uses, what that means for your daily life, and how to set yourself up for charging success from day one.
Keynote: Honda Prologue EV Charger Type
The Honda Prologue uses a CCS1 (Combined Charging System Type 1) combo port that accepts both J1772 Level 2 AC charging and CCS DC fast charging without adapters. It charges at up to 11.5 kW on 240-volt Level 2 home stations (approximately 8 hours for a full charge) and up to 150 kW on DC fast chargers (10-80% in 35 minutes under optimal conditions). Starting in 2025, Honda offers a $225 NACS adapter enabling access to 23,500+ Tesla Supercharger locations. Future Prologue models from 2026 onwards will feature native NACS ports, eliminating the adapter requirement for Tesla’s network access.
Understanding the Honda Prologue’s Charging Port
What Type of Charging Port Does the Honda Prologue Have?
The 2024 and 2025 Honda Prologue comes with a CCS1 combo connector, also known as a Combined Charging System Type 1 port. This is the standard charging port for non-Tesla electric vehicles in North America.
But what does “combo” actually mean?
Think of it like a Swiss Army knife. The CCS1 combo port is a single charging inlet that handles two completely different types of charging. The top portion contains the J1772 connector pins for slower AC charging (what you’ll use at home every night). The bottom portion adds extra DC fast charging pins for those times when you need a quick refuel on a road trip.
One port. Two charging capabilities. No adapter needed for either.
This matters because you’re not carrying multiple charging cables or worrying about compatibility. Every J1772 charger you see at a hotel, shopping center, or workplace will work with your Prologue. Every CCS1 DC fast charger at Electrify America or EVgo will work too. The charging station’s cable plugs directly into that single port on your car.
The combo port is located on the driver’s side front fender, just behind the wheel well. Pop it open like a gas cap, and you’ll see the distinctive rectangular shape with those two sets of pins.
How Does CCS1 Compare to Other Charging Standards?
Understanding where CCS1 fits in the broader charging landscape helps you grasp what you can and can’t do with your Prologue.
J1772 (SAE J1772): This is the standard AC charging connector that’s been around since 2009. Every Level 2 charging station in North America uses this plug. The CCS1 port on your Prologue includes J1772 compatibility right at the top of the connector, so you can use any J1772 charger without thinking about it.
CCS1 (Combined Charging System Type 1): This takes the J1772 connector and adds two extra DC fast charging pins below it. It’s the dominant fast charging standard for non-Tesla EVs in North America. Your Prologue uses this, which means you have access to the extensive Electrify America network, EVgo stations, and thousands of other public fast chargers.
NACS (North American Charging Standard): Previously known as the Tesla connector, this is the sleek, compact plug you see Tesla owners using. Here’s where things get interesting for Prologue owners. Starting in mid-2025, Honda is offering a NACS-to-CCS1 adapter that plugs into your Prologue’s CCS1 port. This adapter unlocks access to Tesla’s 23,500+ Supercharger locations. And starting in 2026, Honda plans to build NACS ports directly into new Prologue models.
The industry is shifting. Tesla opened up their connector design, and most automakers (including Honda) have committed to adopting NACS as the new standard. Your Prologue sits right at this transition point. You’ve got the established CCS1 standard now, with a clear upgrade path to Tesla’s network through an adapter, and the promise of native NACS ports in future model years.
CHAdeMO: This is the Japanese fast charging standard used by older Nissan Leafs and Mitsubishi EVs. Your Prologue doesn’t use this, and you don’t need to worry about it. It’s being phased out in North America.
The GM Ultium Platform Connection
Your Honda Prologue shares more than just a badge with General Motors. It’s built on GM’s Ultium platform, the same foundation underneath the Chevrolet Blazer EV and Cadillac Lyriq. This partnership means the Prologue inherits GM’s charging architecture.
What does that mean practically?
The 11.5 kW onboard charger that converts AC power from your home charging station into DC power for the battery? That’s GM’s design. The 150 kW maximum DC fast charging capability? Same story. The battery management system that controls charging curves and preconditioning? All Ultium.
This isn’t necessarily bad. GM has invested billions into this platform, and it’s a proven system. But it does mean that if you’ve been researching charging performance for the Blazer EV, most of that information applies directly to your Prologue. They share the same 85 kWh usable battery capacity, the same 400-volt electrical architecture, and the same charging limitations.
You’ll notice this most when DC fast charging. The Prologue follows the same charging curve as other Ultium vehicles, meaning it hits peak charging speeds around 10-20% state of charge, maintains decent speeds until about 80%, then throttles down significantly as the battery fills. This is standard battery protection behavior, but understanding it helps you plan better road trip stops.
Charging Speeds and Capabilities
Level 1 Charging: The Emergency Backup
Level 1 charging is what happens when you plug your Prologue into a regular household outlet using the 120-volt NEMA 5-15 plug. It’s the slowest charging method available.
Your Prologue will draw about 1.4 kW from a standard outlet, which translates to roughly 4 miles of range added per hour. Do the math, and you’re looking at multiple days to fully charge an empty battery.
Is this practical for daily use? Not really. If you drive 40 miles round trip for your commute, you’d need about 10 hours of charging just to replace that range. But most standard outlets are on 15-amp circuits shared with other devices, so plugging in overnight might not even cover your daily driving.
Level 1 charging works in very specific situations. You’re staying at a relative’s house for the weekend and want to top off. You’re parked at a campground with a standard outlet. You have an extremely short commute (under 20 miles daily) and can leave the car plugged in for 12+ hours every night. It’s emergency charging, not primary charging.
The included Honda Portable Charging Kit can handle Level 1 charging if you select Package B, but you’ll quickly realize why most EV owners upgrade to Level 2 within the first few weeks.
Level 2 Charging: Your Daily Driver
This is where the Prologue shines for home charging. Level 2 uses 240-volt power (the same voltage as your dryer or electric stove) to deliver significantly faster charging speeds.
The Prologue’s onboard charger can handle up to 11.5 kW of AC power, which is 48 amps at 240 volts. In practical terms, this means you can add about 34 miles of range per hour when connected to a properly sized home charging station. A completely empty battery reaches full charge in approximately 8 hours.
Think about your typical day. You drive to work, run errands, maybe hit the gym. You get home with 50-60% battery remaining. Plug in overnight for 5-6 hours, and you wake up to 100% charge. Every morning, you start with a “full tank” without ever visiting a charging station.
This is the EV ownership experience that converts skeptics.
But achieving that 11.5 kW maximum speed requires the right setup. Your home charging station needs to deliver at least 48 amps continuously, which means it should be rated for 60 amps (National Electrical Code requires charging equipment to be sized at 125% of continuous load). You’ll need a dedicated 60-amp circuit breaker in your electrical panel, and the wiring from that breaker to your charging station must be 6 AWG copper at minimum.
Not all Level 2 chargers deliver the same speed. The portable charger in Honda’s Package B maxes out at 7.6 kW (32 amps) when plugged into a NEMA 14-50 outlet. That’s still decent at 23 miles of range per hour, but it’s not taking full advantage of your Prologue’s charging capability. The hardwired Honda Home Station in Package A delivers the full 11.5 kW.
Most public Level 2 stations at shopping centers, parking garages, and hotels operate at 6.6-7.2 kW. They’re convenient for topping off during a 2-3 hour stop, but they’re not designed for primary charging.
Level 3 (DC Fast Charging): Road Trip Ready
When you need to add significant range quickly, DC fast charging is your answer. The Prologue can accept up to 150 kW of DC power directly into the battery, bypassing the slower onboard AC charger entirely.
At optimal conditions, you can charge from 10% to 80% in about 35 minutes. That’s 210 miles of range added in the time it takes to grab lunch and use the restroom. In the first 10 minutes at a 150 kW station, you’ll add approximately 65 miles of range.
But here’s where things get nuanced.
That 150 kW figure is the peak charging rate, and you’ll only see it under very specific conditions. The battery needs to be between 10-40% state of charge. It needs to be at optimal temperature (around 70-80°F internally). And the DC fast charger itself needs to be capable of delivering 150 kW or more to a 400-volt vehicle.
As the battery fills past 50%, the charging rate starts dropping. By 80%, you’re down to 70-80 kW. Push to 90%, and you’re crawling at 30-50 kW. This is intentional battery protection. Lithium-ion batteries degrade faster when fast-charged at high states of charge, so the battery management system throttles the power to preserve long-term battery health.
This creates the “10-80% charging window” strategy that experienced EV road trippers follow. You don’t arrive at a DC fast charger with 60% battery hoping to top off. You use the last 30% of your charge to reach the next station, plug in at 20-30%, charge to 80%, and hit the road again. The 80-100% range is for home overnight charging, not highway rest stops.
Factors That Impact Charging Speed
You plugged into a DC fast charger rated for 150 kW. But your Prologue is only pulling 90 kW. What’s going on?
Battery Temperature: This is the biggest factor. Lithium-ion batteries are chemistry-dependent, and that chemistry works best within a specific temperature range. If your battery is cold (below 50°F), the battery management system will severely limit charging power to prevent damage. You might see 50-70 kW on a cold winter day even though the charger can deliver 150 kW.
The Prologue includes battery preconditioning. When you navigate to a DC fast charger using the built-in navigation system, the car automatically warms the battery to optimal temperature before arrival. This sounds like a minor feature, but it’s the difference between a 35-minute charging session and a 60-minute one. Always use the navigation system to route to fast chargers in cold weather.
State of Charge: We covered this, but it bears repeating. The charging curve isn’t flat. You get maximum power from 10-40%, declining power from 40-80%, and minimal power above 80%. Your charging strategy should account for this.
Charger Output Capability: Not all DC fast chargers are created equal. The Prologue’s 400-volt architecture needs high amperage to reach 150 kW. A 350 kW-rated charger can deliver that amperage easily. But a 50 kW charger might max out at its rated output regardless of what your car can accept. Always target the highest-power chargers (150 kW or above) for the fastest sessions.
Here’s a reality check from actual Prologue owners: achieving that advertised 35-minute 10-80% charge requires executing everything perfectly. You need to precondition the battery, arrive at low state of charge, use a high-power charger, and have moderate ambient temperatures. In normal use, expect 40-50 minutes for 10-80% charging. That’s still perfectly acceptable for road trips, but it’s important to set realistic expectations.
Home Charging Installation
Electrical Requirements and Breaker Sizing
Installing a Level 2 charging station at home isn’t complicated, but it does require proper electrical work. The National Electrical Code (NEC) Article 625 governs electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) installation, and there are specific requirements you need to follow for safety and code compliance.
Your Honda Prologue’s 11.5 kW onboard charger draws 48 amps continuously at 240 volts. The NEC requires that continuous loads (anything running for 3+ hours) must be calculated at 125% of the actual load for circuit sizing. So 48 amps times 1.25 equals 60 amps.
This means you need a dedicated 60-amp circuit breaker in your electrical panel, even though the charger only draws 48 amps. The circuit breaker protects the wiring, not the charging station, so it must be sized for continuous load.
The wiring from your breaker to the charging station must be appropriately sized too. For a 60-amp circuit at 240 volts, you need minimum 6 AWG copper wire. If you’re running wire a long distance (over 100 feet), you may need to upsize to 4 AWG to account for voltage drop.
Most modern electrical panels can accommodate a 60-amp breaker, but older homes with 100-amp or 150-amp main service might not have enough spare capacity. An electrician can perform a load calculation to determine if your panel needs an upgrade. In some cases, you might need to upgrade to a 200-amp main service, which is a significant additional cost.
The NEC also requires GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection for all EVSE installations. Modern charging stations have this built in, but your electrician needs to verify proper protection. Additionally, you need a disconnect means (either built into the charging station or a separate switch) within sight of the equipment.
If you’re using the Honda Portable Charging Kit with a NEMA 14-50 outlet instead of a hardwired station, the outlet installation still requires a 60-amp circuit for 48-amp continuous output, or a 50-amp circuit if you’re limiting the charger to 40 amps.
Hardwired vs. Plug-In Charging Stations
You have two approaches for home Level 2 charging: a hardwired station or a plug-in unit.
Hardwired stations connect directly to your electrical wiring with no plug or outlet. The Honda Home Station in Package A is hardwired. Benefits include cleaner installation (no visible outlet), slightly more efficient power delivery, and one less potential point of failure. The downside is reduced portability. If you move, the station stays with the house unless you pay an electrician to uninstall and reinstall it at your new location.
Plug-in stations connect to a NEMA 14-50 outlet (the same outlet used for electric stoves and RVs). The Honda Portable Charging Kit uses this approach. Benefits include portability (unplug and take it with you) and potentially lower installation costs (outlets are sometimes easier to install than hardwired stations). The downside is a slightly bulkier appearance and the potential for outlet wear over time from repeatedly plugging and unplugging.
For maximum charging speed (11.5 kW), hardwired stations are generally preferred. They’re designed for permanent installation and continuous use. For flexibility and portability, plug-in units make sense, but you sacrifice some charging speed (the Honda portable maxes at 7.6 kW).
Installation Costs and Honda’s $500 Credit
Professional installation for a Level 2 charging station typically costs between $800 and $2,500, depending on your specific situation.
The main factors affecting cost include distance from electrical panel to installation location (longer runs require more wire), whether your panel has spare capacity or needs upgrading, permit and inspection fees (which vary by municipality), and complexity of the installation (running wire through finished walls costs more than surface conduit).
Honda’s Package A includes a $500 installation credit through Honda Home Electrification, which significantly offsets these costs. Package B includes a $250 credit that can be used for NEMA 14-50 outlet installation.
Here’s a realistic breakdown. If your electrical panel is in the garage 20 feet from where you want the charger, and you have spare capacity for a 60-amp breaker, you’re looking at the lower end of the cost spectrum. An electrician might charge $800-$1,200 for this straightforward installation. After the $500 Honda credit, you’re paying $300-$700 out of pocket.
If your panel is in the basement on the opposite side of the house from your garage, or if you need a panel upgrade to 200-amp service, costs escalate quickly. A panel upgrade alone can be $2,000-$3,000, with an additional $1,000-$1,500 for the charging station circuit. The $500 credit helps, but you’re still looking at significant expense.
Get quotes from at least three licensed electricians. Make sure they’re familiar with NEC Article 625 requirements and have experience with EV charger installations. The lowest bid isn’t always the best choice if the electrician is unfamiliar with EVSE requirements.
DIY Installation Considerations
If you’re electrically inclined and have experience working with 240-volt circuits, you might consider DIY installation to save money.
Before you grab your tools, understand the legal and safety implications. Most jurisdictions require permits for electrical work, especially for new circuits. Installing a 60-amp circuit without a permit can cause issues when you sell your home, and it may void your homeowner’s insurance if something goes wrong. Many areas also require work to be performed by a licensed electrician regardless of your personal experience.
Even if you legally can do the work yourself, you should be comfortable working in your electrical panel, understand proper wire sizing and circuit breaker selection, know how to install conduit and run wiring to code, and can navigate your local permitting and inspection process.
The Honda Home Station installation manual is detailed, but it assumes you have electrical knowledge. If phrases like “torque the lugs to 35 lb-ft” and “verify proper bonding of equipment ground” don’t mean anything to you, hire a professional.
That said, if you’re installing the portable charger and you already have a NEMA 14-50 outlet in your garage (perhaps for an RV), this is a zero-installation situation. Just plug it in. But verify the outlet is on a properly-sized circuit with GFCI protection.
NEC Article 625 Compliance Checklist
For those doing their own installation or wanting to verify their electrician’s work, here’s a compliance checklist based on the National Electrical Code Article 625:
Circuit sizing: 125% of continuous load (60A breaker minimum for 48A charging)
Wire gauge: 6 AWG copper minimum for 60A circuit (4 AWG if run exceeds 100 feet)
GFCI protection: Required for all EVSE installations (built into modern chargers)
Disconnect means: Required within sight of equipment (built into many chargers)
Grounding: Equipment ground required, must be properly bonded
Ventilation: Indoor installations require adequate ventilation (rarely an issue for garage installations)
Labeling: Circuit breaker should be labeled “EV Charger” or similar
Permits and inspection: Required in most jurisdictions
This isn’t a complete guide to NEC compliance, but it covers the major requirements specific to EV charging installations. Your local jurisdiction may have additional requirements, so always check with your local building department.
Honda’s Complimentary Charging Packages
Package A: Home Charging Bundle
This is the most popular package for homeowners with dedicated parking. You get the Honda Home Charging Station, a wall-mounted unit that delivers the full 11.5 kW (48 amps) your Prologue can accept. It’s hardwired, meaning it connects directly to your electrical system with no plug or outlet.
The station comes with a 25-foot cable, which is long enough for most garage setups. Twenty-five feet sounds like a lot until you realize you need to account for the distance from the charger to your electrical panel (where the wire runs), then from the charger down to your car’s charging port. If you’re parking far from where the charger mounts, measure carefully.
Honda includes a $500 installation credit through Honda Home Electrification (HHE). You coordinate with an approved HHE electrician who provides a quote, performs the work, and bills Honda directly for the first $500. You pay anything above that amount. You also get a $100 EVgo public charging credit for occasional fast charging needs, plus 60 kWh at Electrify America stations (equivalent to roughly 200 miles of driving).
Who should choose Package A? You own your home. You have a garage or dedicated parking spot where you can mount a charger. You want the fastest possible Level 2 charging. You’re comfortable with a permanent installation.
The catch? Some Prologue buyers report dealership confusion about actually getting the charger. In some cases, owners left the dealership without the hardware and had to follow up with customer service to have it shipped. Make sure you clarify the fulfillment process with your dealer before finalizing the purchase.
Package B: Portable Charging Bundle
This package includes the Honda Portable Charging Kit, a dual-voltage unit about the size of a small briefcase. Plug it into a 240-volt NEMA 14-50 outlet, and it delivers 7.6 kW (32 amps) of Level 2 charging. Plug it into a standard 120-volt household outlet, and it becomes a 1.4 kW Level 1 charger.
The portability is the key feature. You can take it with you when visiting friends or family with compatible outlets. You can bring it on road trips as a backup charging option. And if you move to a new home, it comes with you.
Honda provides a $250 HHE installation credit (which can cover NEMA 14-50 outlet installation if you don’t already have one), a $300 EVgo public charging credit (more than Package A since you have slower home charging), and the same 60 kWh Electrify America credit.
At 7.6 kW, you’ll add about 23 miles of range per hour. That’s enough for most daily driving needs. If you commute 40 miles round trip, 2-3 hours plugged in overnight fully replenishes that range. But if you’re a higher-mileage driver or want the convenience of faster charging, you might find yourself wishing you had the full 11.5 kW.
Who should choose Package B? You rent and can’t install a hardwired charger. You have access to a NEMA 14-50 outlet (or can have one installed). You value portability over maximum charging speed. You want flexibility for future moves.
The reality check: Some Prologue owners report reliability issues with the Honda-branded portable charger, particularly with the GFCI protection triggering unexpectedly. Third-party options from Tesla, Grizzl-E, or Emporia are often regarded as more reliable, though you’ll pay out-of-pocket for them. Some buyers recommend taking Package C’s larger public charging credit and buying a proven third-party portable charger separately.
Package C: Public Charging Credit
No hardware. Just credits. You get a hefty $750 EVgo public charging credit and the standard 60 kWh Electrify America introductory credit.
This package makes sense in two scenarios. You live in an apartment or condo without home charging access, and you’ll rely entirely on public charging networks. Or you have free Level 2 charging at work and you primarily need public fast charging for occasional road trips.
Seven hundred fifty dollars buys a lot of charging. At EVgo’s typical rates (around $0.35-$0.48 per kWh depending on location and membership), that’s roughly 1,600-2,100 kWh of charging. Given the Prologue’s efficiency of 2.8-3.1 miles per kWh, you’re looking at 4,500-6,500 miles of driving. That’s 6-9 months of typical use for many drivers.
But there’s a strategic reason to consider Package C even if you can install home charging. The physical chargers included in Packages A and B have received mixed reviews from owners. If you’d rather purchase a proven third-party Level 2 charger (which you’ll pay for yourself), taking the larger public charging credit might make financial sense. You get more value in credits, spend $400-$600 on a reliable Grizzl-E or ChargePoint unit, and you’re potentially ahead.
Who should choose Package C? You have no home charging option. You have free charging at work and rarely need public charging. You want maximum flexibility to choose your own home charging equipment.
Making the Right Choice for Your Situation
Think about your daily routine. Where does your car sit overnight? Is there an electrical outlet nearby? Do you own that property? How many miles do you drive daily?
If you own a home with a garage and drive 30-60 miles per day, Package A is the straightforward choice. You’ll do 95% of your charging at home overnight, and you want it to be fast and convenient.
If you rent, or if you might move in the next 2-3 years, Package B gives you options. The portable charger comes with you, and you’re not leaving a $1,000 hardwired installation behind.
If you have no home charging access or excellent workplace charging, Package C maximizes your public charging value. But understand that relying entirely on public charging changes the EV ownership experience. You’re planning charging stops instead of just plugging in at night. For some people, that’s fine. For others, it’s a dealbreaker.
There’s no wrong choice here, but there is a wrong match between your living situation and your package selection.
Tesla Supercharger Access with NACS Adapter
When and How to Get the Honda NACS Adapter
Starting in Spring 2025, Honda began offering a NACS-to-CCS1 adapter for current Prologue owners. This adapter plugs into your Prologue’s CCS1 charging port and allows you to charge at Tesla Supercharger locations.
The adapter costs $225 and is available through Honda dealers or ordered directly through the HondaLink app. It’s a physical piece of hardware about the size of a large coffee mug, with a NACS plug on one end (that connects to the Tesla Supercharger cable) and a CCS1 connector on the other end (that plugs into your Prologue).
Honda officially announced adapter availability on March 20, 2025, with actual delivery beginning in June 2025. As of July 2025, the adapter is readily available and most Prologue owners who want one have already received theirs.
To use it, you’ll need to enable Tesla Supercharger access through the HondaLink app. This links your Honda account with Tesla’s charging network, allowing the Supercharger stations to authenticate your vehicle and bill you for charging sessions.
The process is straightforward. Navigate to a Tesla Supercharger location (make sure it’s one of the 23,500+ stations that support non-Tesla vehicles). Park in a charging spot. Connect the adapter to your Prologue’s charging port first. Then plug the Tesla cable into the adapter. The charging session starts automatically, and you’re billed through your HondaLink account.
Compatibility and Network Access
Here’s what changes with the adapter. Your Prologue gains access to over 23,500 Tesla Supercharger ports across North America. This dramatically expands your fast charging options, especially in rural areas and along highways where Tesla’s network is significantly more dense than CCS1 stations.
Not all Tesla Superchargers support non-Tesla vehicles. Tesla has been gradually opening its network, but some locations remain Tesla-exclusive. The HondaLink app shows which stations are accessible with your adapter. When trip planning, you can filter for Supercharger locations that accept non-Tesla EVs.
Charging speeds at Tesla Superchargers match what you’d get at CCS1 stations. The adapter doesn’t limit power delivery. If the Supercharger can deliver 150 kW to a 400-volt vehicle, your Prologue will accept up to its maximum 150 kW, subject to the same battery temperature and state-of-charge limitations we discussed earlier.
There’s one technical consideration. Tesla Superchargers have relatively short cables (about 6 feet) designed for Tesla vehicles with charging ports on the driver’s side rear. Your Prologue’s port is on the driver’s side front. Depending on how the charging stalls are configured, you might need to park at an angle or use a non-standard parking orientation to reach the cable. Some Prologue owners report this as mildly annoying but not a dealbreaker.
Third-Party NACS Adapters: Worth the Risk?
Walk into any EV accessories store or browse Amazon, and you’ll find NACS-to-CCS1 adapters from third-party manufacturers priced at $120-$180. That’s $45-$105 cheaper than Honda’s official adapter.
Should you save the money?
Here’s Honda’s position, and this is critical. Using a non-Honda-approved NACS adapter may void your warranty coverage for charging system damage. If a third-party adapter causes communication errors that damage your onboard charger or battery management system, Honda can deny warranty coverage for those repairs. Those repairs can cost thousands of dollars.
The concern isn’t just theoretical. The adapter facilitates a complex electronic handshake between the Supercharger and your vehicle. Power levels, voltage regulation, and safety shutdown protocols all depend on proper communication. A poorly-designed adapter that doesn’t correctly translate CCS1 protocols to NACS standards could cause charging errors or damage.
Third-party adapters aren’t necessarily bad. Many are well-designed and have been used successfully by thousands of EV owners. But they haven’t been specifically tested and approved for your Prologue’s charging system. Honda’s adapter has been validated with your specific vehicle configuration.
The math: Save $100 on an adapter, risk a potential warranty claim worth $2,000-$5,000. For most people, that’s not a favorable risk-reward ratio. Buy the Honda adapter.
There’s one exception. If you’re outside your warranty period (which is 3 years/36,000 miles for the Prologue’s EV components), the warranty concern disappears. At that point, it’s purely a question of adapter quality and reliability, and some third-party options are excellent.
2026+ Models with Native NACS Ports
The adapter situation is temporary. Honda has committed to building NACS charging ports directly into future electric vehicles, starting with models released in 2026.
What this means for 2024-2025 Prologue buyers: You’re purchasing during the transition period. Your vehicle has the legacy CCS1 port, and you’ll use an adapter to access Tesla Superchargers. Future Prologue models (likely 2026 model year or later) will have NACS ports built in, offering a more streamlined charging experience with no adapter required.
Is this a reason to wait? Not necessarily. The adapter works fine. It adds about 10 seconds to your charging routine (time to connect the adapter to your car, then the cable to the adapter). It’s one more piece of hardware to carry in your vehicle. But it’s not a significant functional limitation.
The bigger consideration is resale value. When it’s time to sell your 2024-2025 Prologue in 3-5 years, buyers will be choosing between your CCS1-equipped vehicle (with adapter) and newer models with native NACS ports. The market will likely price in some discount for the older charging standard, though it’s impossible to predict exactly how much.
For most buyers, this shouldn’t be a dealbreaker. You’re buying a vehicle for your current needs, and the CCS1 port with NACS adapter provides excellent charging access. By the time native NACS ports become standard across the industry, you’ll probably be ready for your next vehicle anyway.
Public Charging Networks and Strategy
EVgo and Electrify America Partnerships
Honda’s official charging network partnerships are with EVgo and Electrify America, which is why all three charging packages include credits for these networks.
EVgo operates over 3,000 DC fast charging locations across the United States, primarily in urban and suburban areas. Their stations typically feature 100 kW and 350 kW chargers. The network is well-maintained, and charger reliability is generally good. Your Prologue will access 100-150 kW charging speeds at EVgo stations, depending on the specific charger and your battery’s state of charge.
Electrify America is the largest open DC fast charging network in North America, with over 900 locations and 4,000+ individual chargers. Their stations feature 150 kW and 350 kW charging capability. Electrify America focuses heavily on highway corridor installations, making them particularly valuable for road trips. The network has struggled with reliability issues in the past, though recent improvements have boosted uptime significantly.
Both networks use CCS1 connectors, so your Prologue plugs in directly with no adapter needed. You’ll create accounts in both the EVgo and Electrify America apps, where you can view station locations, check charger availability in real-time, and manage your charging sessions and credits.
Using PlugShare and Other Charging Apps
No single app shows every charging station. You’ll want to download PlugShare, which aggregates data from multiple networks and includes user reviews and real-time status updates.
PlugShare shows not just EVgo and Electrify America, but also ChargePoint, Blink, Volta, and dozens of smaller networks. More importantly, it shows Level 2 destination chargers at hotels, restaurants, and parking garages. These slower chargers are perfect for topping off while you’re doing something else, and many are free.
The user reviews in PlugShare are invaluable. You’ll learn which chargers are frequently broken, which locations have parking issues, and which stations require specific app authentication or RFID cards. Check-ins from other Prologue or Blazer EV drivers (they use the same charging system) show you expected charging speeds at specific locations.
Apple Maps and Google Maps now include EV charging station filters, showing CCS1-compatible fast chargers along your route. But they don’t show real-time availability or user reviews, so they’re best used for general trip planning with PlugShare providing detailed information.
Real-World Charging Strategy for Road Trips
Here’s how experienced Prologue owners approach long-distance travel. Plan to charge from 20-30% to 80%, not 80% to 100%. That charging curve we discussed means the last 20% takes almost as long as the first 60%. You’ll save time by making slightly more frequent shorter stops rather than fewer longer ones.
Use the Prologue’s built-in navigation to route to chargers whenever possible. This triggers battery preconditioning, warming the battery to optimal temperature before you arrive. This single step can cut 10-15 minutes off your charging session in cold weather.
Target 150 kW or 350 kW chargers. Lower-power stations (50 kW units) will limit your charging speed regardless of what your car can accept. Check PlugShare to verify charger power ratings before you route there.
Build buffer into your plans. If the navigation says you’ll arrive with 15% battery, that’s cutting it too close. Aim for 25-30% arrival charge. This accounts for unexpected detours, headwinds, and the possibility that your planned charger is offline or occupied.
Have backup charging options. Before you leave home, identify alternate charging locations within 20-30 miles of your planned stops. If your first choice is down or has a long wait, you can immediately pivot to the backup.
During peak travel times (holiday weekends), expect waits at popular charging locations. The Electrify America station at the interstate rest area might have all four chargers occupied. Either wait your turn (charging is first-come-first-served) or move to a less convenient but less crowded alternative.
Budget 30-40 minutes per charging stop when trip planning, not the advertised 20-30 minutes. This accounts for finding the charger, parking, connecting, the actual charging time, using the restroom, and returning to your vehicle. It’s better to build in realistic time estimates than to be constantly rushed.
The Future: IONNA and Industry Consolidation
The charging landscape is evolving rapidly. Seven major automakers (including Honda, General Motors, BMW, and Hyundai) formed a joint venture called IONNA to build a new high-power charging network across North America. They’re targeting 30,000 charging ports by 2030, with a focus on highway corridors and urban locations.
IONNA stations will feature both CCS1 and NACS connectors, making them accessible to all current EVs regardless of charging standard. The goal is Tesla-level reliability with multi-manufacturer backing. The first stations are expected to open in late 2024, with significant expansion through 2025-2026.
For Prologue owners, this means even more charging options as the vehicle ages. The current concerns about CCS1 being phased out become less relevant when new high-power networks are installing CCS1 connectors alongside NACS.
The industry is also consolidating around payment and account management. The days of needing separate apps for every charging network are ending. Apple Wallet and Google Wallet integration is rolling out, allowing you to tap to pay at chargers without opening an app. The HondaLink app is integrating with multiple networks for unified billing.
Within 2-3 years, public charging should be significantly more seamless than it is today. You’ll pull up, plug in, charge, and leave without thinking about which network you’re using or which app to open. We’re not quite there yet, but we’re close.
Conclusion
So, what type of charger does the Honda Prologue use?
Your Prologue has a CCS1 combo port that handles both J1772 Level 2 charging and CCS DC fast charging, no adapter required. It charges at up to 11.5 kW on Level 2 (about 34 miles per hour), and up to 150 kW on DC fast chargers (10-80% in roughly 35-40 minutes). Starting in 2025, you can add a $225 NACS adapter to access Tesla’s 23,500+ Supercharger network.
The technical specs matter, but here’s what really matters: You’ll plug in at home overnight and wake up to a full charge every morning. You’ll road trip with 30-40 minute charging stops every 200 miles. You’ll have access to EVgo, Electrify America, and soon Tesla Superchargers, giving you more charging options than 90% of EV drivers had just three years ago.
The Honda Prologue enters the market at a transition point, with the established CCS1 standard and a clear path to Tesla network access. Early adopters deal with an adapter for a year or two. But that’s a minor inconvenience for an otherwise solid charging ecosystem.
Your first step today? Choose your Honda charging package based on your living situation. If you own a home, Package A gets you fast home charging. If you rent, Package B gives you portability. If you have no home charging option, Package C provides public charging value.
Welcome to electric driving. You’ve got this.
Prologue EV Charger Type (FAQs)
Does Honda Prologue use CCS or Tesla charging port?
No, it uses CCS1 (J1772 combo). The 2024-2025 models have a CCS1 port, not Tesla’s NACS connector. You can charge at any J1772 or CCS1 station without adapters. Starting mid-2025, a $225 NACS adapter unlocks Tesla Supercharger access.
What adapter do I need to charge Honda Prologue at Tesla Supercharger?
Yes, you need Honda’s NACS-to-CCS1 adapter ($225). Available since June 2025 through dealers or the HondaLink app. It connects to your CCS1 port and accepts Tesla’s NACS cable. Don’t use cheap third-party adapters, they may void your charging system warranty.
How fast does Honda Prologue charge on Level 2 vs DC fast charging?
Level 2 adds 34 miles per hour at 11.5 kW (full charge overnight in 8 hours). DC fast charging adds 65 miles in 10 minutes at 150 kW peak. Realistically, expect 10-80% charging in 35-40 minutes. Level 2 is for daily home charging, DC fast charging is for road trips.
Can I use any J1772 charger with Honda Prologue?
Yes, absolutely. Every J1772 Level 2 charger works with your Prologue’s CCS1 combo port. This includes ChargePoint, workplace chargers, hotel charging stations, and public Level 2 networks. Just plug in and charge. No adapters or special equipment needed.
Will future Honda Prologue models have NACS charging ports built-in?
Yes, likely 2026 model year or later. Honda committed to native NACS ports in future EVs. Current 2024-2025 Prologues use CCS1 ports with optional NACS adapter. Future models won’t need an adapter for Tesla Superchargers, but your current CCS1 port works fine with the adapter.
What size breaker do I need for Honda Prologue home charger?
You need a 60-amp dedicated breaker for maximum 11.5 kW (48A) charging speed. The NEC requires 125% oversizing for continuous loads, so 48A times 1.25 equals 60A minimum. Use 6 AWG copper wire from the breaker to your charging station. A 50-amp circuit works if you limit charging to 40A (9.6 kW).
How long does it take to fully charge a Honda Prologue at home?
About 8 hours on Level 2 at 11.5 kW (from empty to full). Most nights you’re topping off from 50-60%, which takes 4-5 hours. On Level 1 (standard outlet), it takes multiple days for a full charge. That’s why 95% of owners use Level 2 home charging.
Can Honda Prologue charge at Electrify America stations?
Yes, perfectly compatible. Electrify America uses CCS1 connectors, exactly what your Prologue has. All Prologue charging packages include 60 kWh of complimentary Electrify America charging (about 200 miles). You’ll charge at 100-150 kW depending on battery temperature and state of charge.