New Ford Models Offer Electric Range “Sharing” Feature

 

As electric vehicles have become all the rage among car buyers, one concern is that of range-in the event that a plug or charger is unavailable, will the cars remain usable? Recently, Ford has come up with an innovative solution to this problem: “Range sharing” using their "Pro Power Onboard" technology will allow drivers of the all-electric F-150 Lightning and the F-150 Powerboost Hybrid to share power between vehicles. Drivers will be able to provide each other with power during an outage, or simply “top off” a neighbor’s battery.

 

Given Ford’s transition to electric vehicles, and the popularity of their Mustang Mach-E, this feature will be sure to provide useful for many new buyers. With powerful on-board generators as well as high-capacity batteries, Ford has ensured that their trucks not only serve as vehicles, but also mobile power sources. Even apart from powering other vehicles, the F-150 Powerboost Hybrid has a generator that can be used to provide energy for power tools, accessories, and the Ford Mobile Power Cord. Clearly, Ford understands its market well, and wants to provide useful features to the hardworking professionals that use its trucks. 

 

Going even further, in the event of a home power outage, the F-150 Lightning can even power a home using Ford Intelligent Backup Power. As an alternative to another power source or backup generator, owners can simply use the Ford truck to power a home for up to three days. Additionally, because of the efficiently sized electric powertrain, Ford has been able to incorporate a ‘frunk’, or front trunk, which offers several convenient power outlets and a 14 cubic foot lockable storage compartment.

 

As the electric truck market grows, we can see how their applications go beyond simply powering vehicles sustainably (already a noble goal), and extend to even more practical uses like powering tools, homes, or other vehicles. Through developing this technology, Ford is building an ecosystem based off of sustainable power sharing to maximize value for buyers and users.