Ford Pro, the commercial arm of Ford Motor, and clean energy provider Xcel Energy have unveiled a partnership aimed at facilitating the deployment of 30,000 electric vehicle (EV) charging ports in the latter’s service territories across the US by 2030.
The ambitious initiative, known as 30×30, will operate within Xcel Energy’s broader Electric Vehicle Supply Infrastructure (EVSI) programme, focusing on scaling EV adoption and enhancing charging infrastructure accessibility for business fleets within Xcel Energy’s US service regions.
Xcel Energy executive vice president, utilities group president, and chief customer officer Amanda Rome said: “Ford Pro and Xcel Energy are pioneering a whole new way to scale EV charging infrastructure.
“Ford Pro is a trusted provider in fleet electrification, scaling charging infrastructure for fleets with smart vehicle, charging and software solutions. And Xcel Energy is a trusted advisor in transportation electrification, providing energy, infrastructure and innovative solutions for customers’ homes, businesses and EVs.
“Together, we are committed to making a real impact on the future of electrification in America.”
Under the programme, Xcel Energy will significantly offset most upfront costs associated with EV charging equipment and installation for qualifying business fleet customers. Ford Pro will contribute its comprehensive suite of end-to-end charging solutions to Xcel Energy business customers as part of the collaborative effort.
The 30×30 initiative is set to launch in 2024 through Xcel Energy’s EVSI programme in Colorado and Wisconsin, with plans for potential expansion into additional states over the next six years, subject to regulatory approvals.
This distinctive collaboration between a vehicle manufacturer and utility provider aims to simplify the acquisition of EV charging solutions for business fleets. Xcel Energy will handle the installation of charging infrastructure for qualifying business customers enrolled in an approved EVSI program, with most initial costs offset by the utility.
Ford Pro will supply Ford Pro Charging equipment and offer post-installation customer service and support.
Business fleets engaging in the 30×30 collaboration can leverage Ford Pro Intelligence, featuring intelligent charging software and connected solutions such as Ford Pro Telematics. These integrated solutions enhance operational efficiency by providing businesses with data from both vehicles and chargers, ensuring optimal charging schedules and increasing vehicle uptime.
Ford Pro, committed to supporting customers in their transition to zero-emission solutions, offers a growing lineup of work-ready EVs, including the F-150 Lightning Pro pickup and E-Transit van. The company provides Ford Pro Charging hardware, encompassing 48- and 80-amp chargers for overnight Level 2 AC charging, alongside Ford Pro Charging software tailored for home, public, and depot chargers.
Extended DC Fast Charger options with power levels of 180kW and 240kW offer enhanced flexibility and potentially shorter charge times.
As part of their collaboration, Ford Pro and Xcel Energy plan to analyse telematics data from participating vehicles to encourage commercial charging during off-peak periods, contributing to reduced electric grid emissions and potential cost savings for customers.
This innovative collaboration sets a precedent for future partnerships between energy and utility companies, offering a template for meeting the growing EV charging infrastructure needs of businesses within their service areas.
Ford Pro CEO Ted Cannis said: “We know electrification can be complex for businesses.
“We’re focused on helping them make that transition at the right time in the right way that’s best for their business. We know that may require new ways of working to encourage and support adoption. We’re honoured to work with Xcel Energy—together we’re creating a new model to help eliminate barriers for businesses in their electrification journey.”
