Mercedes-Benz said that its electric vehicles will be able to access Tesla’s Supercharger network starting in February.

Electric Benz drivers in the US can use the chargers from February, but although the company will switch to NACS ports on new cars, existing owners need a $185 adapter

But compatibility with Tesla's charging network—which Benz says swells the number of available fast chargers for its customers by 20,000 in the U.S. and Canada combined—depends on more than just a similar plug design.

Six non-Tesla EV brands now have more charging options, with Mercedes up next in February. Here's the full list and how this major industry shift came about.

Mercedes-Benz is giving its electric vehicle owners access to Tesla's Supercharger network for public fast charging with approved adapters.