Ford Motor Co. in Dearborn is planning to deliver new models of electric vehicle charging stations next year and expects to have more public vehicle charging stations in North America than any other automaker. It also plans to invest $11.5 billion in electric vehicles through 2022.
The Ford all-electric charging strategy features at-home charging options and DC fast charging at some public charging stations. The increased charging options, FordPass app, and in-vehicle screen are working to address customer hesitancies surrounding electric vehicle ownership.
“Among people who already own or want to purchase electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, 48 percent say that a lack of charging stations is one of their main concerns,” says Ted Cannis, Ford director of global electrification. “By offering industry-leading charging access, we are dismantling those barriers, allowing more customers to confidently enjoy the benefits of owning an electric vehicle.”
Ford will offer its Connected Charge Stations, which are available for homes and include connectivity features. The 48-amp station enables control from anywhere and adds an estimated average range of 32 miles per charging hour.
Every Ford all-electric vehicle will come with a Ford Mobile Charger. It’s capable of charging on a higher-voltage 240-volt electrical outlet often used for large household appliances such as dryers. It can add an estimated 22 miles per charging hour. If customers need to use a standard 120-volt electrical outlet, they offer an average range of three miles per charging hour.
Ford has teamed up with Amazon Home Services to offer installation of home charging setups. Those interested will be able to see upfront pricing estimates and schedule licensed electricians online.
For on-the-go charging, Ford plans to provide two years of complimentary access to the FordPass Charging Network. It includes more than 12,000 charging stations with more than 35,000 plugs and offers pay-as-you-drive charging.
Greenlots has partnered with Ford to bring together charging providers to develop the charging network. Customers will be able find and pay for charging through in-vehicle FordPass access. The companies will work together to add networks to FordPass in the future for further coverage.
Electrify America is also working with Ford to provide access to DC fast chargers. At 150-kilowatt chargers, customers can add an estimated 47 miles of range in 10 minutes. They can also charge their battery from 10 percent to 80 percent in 45 minutes using an Electrify America DC fast charger.
“The fact that most of our customers will plug in at home is a key advantage to an all-electric vehicle,” says Matt Stover, director of charging, energy services, and business development at Ford. “We will deliver a charging experience that is hassle-free whether you’re at home or on the go.”
Through the FordPass app, drivers can set charging schedules and alerts at home. The app also offers FordPass Power My Trip, a tool that finds charging points along routes. FordPass will also tell drivers whether a charging outlet is available or in use if data is made available by a charge point operator. The app will also identify points of interest, such as restaurants and shopping centers, near charging stations.
