Ford EV Charging Moves to Cut Range Anxiety
Photo: Ford Motor Company
Ford announced two key EV charging initiatives that should help quell range anxiety. With convenient home charging solutions and two free years of charging on the largest public charging network in North America, Ford stands to emerge as the leader in electrified vehicles over the next several years.
“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,” said 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.”
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Ford revealed that all new Ford EVs moving forward will feature a standard Ford Mobile Charger, which will generate 22 miles of range per charging hour with a high-voltage 240-volt outlet. To ensure more homes have access to 240-volt outlets, Ford will team with Amazon Home Services for installation services. With a standard 120-volt outlet, the Ford Mobile Charger will recover an average of three miles per hour when charging.
Customers will also have the option to purchase a Ford Connected Charge Station for the home. This home charging station features 48-amp output, enabling an average 32 miles of range per hour charged and making it so that the Mustang-inspired electric SUV can charge to full capacity overnight. The Ford Connected Charge Station is also available for install through Amazon Home Services.
“The fact that most of our customers will plug in at home is a key advantage to an all-electric vehicle,” said Matt Stover, Ford director of charging, energy services and business development. “We will deliver a charging experience that is hassle-free whether you’re at home or on-the-go.”
Because range anxiety largely comes down to charging on the go, Ford will provide two years of complimentary access to the FordPass Charging Network. Ford is working with Greenlots to expand the charging network even further in the future, and it’s teaming with Electrify America to provide access to DC fast chargers. The FordPass app will allow drivers to schedule charging at home, and its Power My Trip tool makes it easier to plan longer routes by directing to points of interest and charging stations.
The move to expand electric vehicle public charging comes on the heels of increased efforts to raise public awareness for EVs. In September, Ford released the results of a survey showing the many concerns drivers have about electric vehicles. Ford launched a website to allay those fears as well as videos demonstrating the functionality of future EVs.
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