Ford is teaming up with energy providers Octopus Energy in Great Britain and Tibber in Germany, the Netherlands, and Norway to offer new energy experiences for Ford electric vehicle (EV) customers. These partnerships will enable Ford EV owners to charge their vehicles using energy tariffs specifically designed to maximize cost savings and promote the use of renewable energy.
The new energy services will be offered to Ford Mustang Mach-E and Ford Explorer customers from 2024 onwards. A new Dynamic Charging feature will allow Ford EVs to communicate with the energy providers’ intelligent supply networks. This will enable owners of compatible models to plug in their vehicle, input their desired state-of-charge and departure time using a smartphone app, and let their vehicle charge itself automatically using the most cost-effective and renewable energy sources available.
Ford’s in-house research indicates that up to 87% of Mustang Mach-E drivers charge their vehicle at home and that the cost of energy used is the most significant consideration when charging. Depending on the market, Ford’s new energy services have the potential to benefit EV owners whether charging during the day or night.
The connected technology can automatically optimise charging to make use of cheaper off-peak electricity at night and lower energy prices created by the peak supply of renewable energy, including solar, during the day. This service is capable of striking a balance between maximum cost savings and renewable sources of energy.
Speaking about the service providers of the new innovative charging tech, Octopus Energy will install the home charging solutions in Great Britain whereas Tibber will install the smart charging solution in markets like the Netherlands, Germany and Norway.
Ford is geared to offer 10 electric vehicles in Europe by 2025, following its target to sell only 100% electric vehicles in the continent by 2035. The American carmaker is aiming for carbon neutrality across Europe with its logistics, facilities and supplies by 2035. If the said plan executes as supposed, Ford is said to achieve carbon neutrality globally no later than 2050.