Electric vehicles (EVs) are rapidly changing the automotive landscape, and manufacturers are making significant strides to accommodate the growing market. Ford, one of the pioneers in the American automotive industry, is no exception. In a groundbreaking move, the company has announced the expansion of its BlueOval™ Charge Network in North America, with plans to grow it by 25%. This expansion will bring the total number of chargers in the network to an impressive 106,000, cementing Ford's commitment to electric mobility.
The BlueOval Charge Network is North America's largest public charging network by an automaker. What sets it apart is its comprehensive approach, designed to provide Ford EV drivers with easy access to a variety of charging providers without the need for multiple apps and memberships. This means you won't have to fumble with numerous charging apps or worry about various memberships to access charging stations. Ford has simplified the process by integrating a seamless stored payment account through the FordPass App, eliminating the need for onsite credit card use.
With this expansion, three new charging providers have been added to the network: Francis Energy, Blink, and Red E. This brings more than 10,000 new chargers to the network, including over 550 new DC fast chargers. The inclusion of these providers complements the existing roster of charging providers in the BlueOval Charge Network, such as Shell Recharge Solutions, Electrify America, EVgo, ChargePoint, FLO, EV Connect, and Electric Circuit. With the addition of these providers, Ford's charging network now boasts more than 11,800 fast-charging stations.
Ford's commitment to fast charging is evident in its plans for significant additional DC fast charger growth, scheduled to kick off in early 2024. This expansion includes charging stations at Ford dealerships, a crucial step towards ensuring the convenience of fast charging for Ford EV owners. Furthermore, Ford has ambitious plans to include over 15,000 accessible Tesla stations, providing even more options for their customers. These stations will be available to Ford EV owners via an adapter, available for purchase through accessories.ford.com.
Ford is not only focused on individual EV owners but also on commercial customers. The company has introduced Ford Pro Intelligence software, making charging on the go at public chargers seamless for businesses. Fleet operators can set up a single Public Charge Management account, which centralizes billing, charging logs, and monthly invoicing. This simplifies the process for businesses and allows them to manage charging costs effectively, regardless of where their drivers charge.
Ford is taking significant steps to alleviate range anxiety, a concern often associated with electric vehicles. By expanding the BlueOval Charge Network and including the Tesla Supercharger Network, Ford aims to make sure Ford all-electric drivers can travel with confidence. Bill Crider, Ford's senior director of global charging and energy services, emphasizes that the continuous growth of the BlueOval Charge Network is a top priority for the company, and they are committed to providing the best electric driving experience for their customers.
Despite the rapid expansion of public charging infrastructure, Ford recognizes that over 80% of Ford EV drivers currently charge their vehicles at home. This creates an ideal ownership experience where most customers can start their day with a fully charged vehicle. To facilitate home charging, Ford offers a range of home and commercial depot charging solutions. This approach ensures that Ford EV customers have the flexibility and convenience they need, whether for daily commutes or longer road trips.
Ford's expansion of the BlueOval Charge Network is a significant milestone in the electrification journey. With a robust and growing charging infrastructure, partnerships with key providers, and a commitment to fast charging, Ford is making EV ownership more accessible and convenient than ever. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Ford is ensuring that its customers can enjoy the benefits of electric driving without compromising on convenience and accessibility. With the future looking bright, Ford is poised to play a leading role in the electrification revolution.
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