By constructing one of the largest charging networks in the North Americas, Ford is hoping to establish the company as a leading EV exponent in the region, which it expects will help it edge ahead of its competitors.

Ford Motor Company and Volkswagen recently announced plans to construct a network of electric vehicle (EV) charging points across North America. The pair plan on installing 35,000 charge plugs across 12,000 regional destinations, making it the largest owned network of changing portals in the continent.

The news follows plans announced in January 2019 by General Motors to construct what would be the largest charging network in the US, comprising of 31,000 charging ports. 

By constructing one of the largest charging networks in the North Americas, Ford is hoping to establish the company as a leading EV exponent in the region, which it expects will help it edge ahead of its competitors.

The company needs such a deal to catch up with Tesla. Founded by Elon Musk, the EV maker operates a charging network of 12,000 locations. This has helped normalise the use of EVs, alleviating ‘range anxiety’ from consumers and boosting sales. 

Consequently, Ford and Volkswagen must act quickly if the much-anticipated EV lineups from both companies are to be a success in the US. 

Ford’s mobile chargers

Ford has also developed mobile chargers. These have the ability to power EVs without the need for a power outlet. The portable charger can be re-energised on a higher voltage 240-volt electrical outlet and can power a vehicle for an estimated range of 22 miles per hour spent charging.

According to Ted Cannis, Ford’s director of global electrification, 48% of consumers say a lack of charging infrastructure is one of their main concerns when contemplating the purchase of an EV. Ford’s mobile charging device helps solve this issue encouraging the purchase of Ford’s EVs. 

The mobile chargers which will be standard issue with new all-electric vehicles act as an additional solution to the lack of infrastructure across the US. 

Ford is hoping mobile charging will offer customers a competitive benefit and help differentiate its vehicles from GM Motors. 

Ford’s Amazon adventure

Amazon is the latest company to become a strategic partner with Ford. Hoping to spread brand appeal, the US car manufacturer has embraced the online space for increasing EV sales.

The exposure received from Amazon, the world’s largest online business in terms of revenue, will significantly benefit Ford, helping the company find new EV customers.

Such an arrangement also a symptom of the multifaceted methods that modern car makers must use to shift goods in an industry that is notoriously overserved. 

Ford is using Amazon Home services to provide consumers with a digital platform where they can access upfront price estimates and schedule licensed and vetted electricians for installation of home charging setups.

  

 

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