Ford Increases Availability of Series 2 Charging Stations, Helping Fleets with Electrification Process

Photo Source: Ford

Electric vehicle owners are rapidly realizing that range is not as significant as having access to dependable charging options. Once customers understand they can plug in when needed, range anxiety becomes much less of a concern. That said, on August 29th, 2023, Ford Pro, the division that specializes in commercial vehicles, announced vital improvements to its electric vehicle charging network. 

In a press release, the automaker declared it is making two new Series 2 AC charging stations available to consumers who rely on Ford electric commercial vehicles like the F-150 Lightning and the e-Transit in their fleets. There is a 48 amp Series 2 charger and an 80 amp Series 2 charger.

Productivity Associated with the Series 2 Charger

The company claims the Series 2 charger is simpler to use, service, and control. For example, it comes equipped with a detachable connector and cable and an RFID reader. Moreover, it has increased connectivity and can be updated wirelessly as new charging protocols become available in the future. The Blue Oval is also expanding its fast charger network. In other words, both the Series 2 AC charging units and its fast chargers are compatible with electric vehicles from other manufacturers as well. 

To clarify, the RFID reader controls access to the Series 2 chargers. Fleet operators can issue a unique Ford Pro RFID card that limits charging sessions to specific vehicles or individuals. By specifying which days and times are available for charging, the RFID permits fleet operators to access energy usage reports through Ford Pro’s charging management software. 

Handling Updates

The 80 amp Series 2 AC chargers will be ISO-15118 ready and outfitted to manage over-the-air updates. In addition, LCD screens on the Series 2 chargers will showcase step-by-step instructions on how to start charging as well as information regarding charge duration, energy usage, fault alerts, and more. Sensors will decrease charger output automatically if overheating occurs. The chargers are engineered to function from -40º to 122º Fahrenheit at altitudes up to 3,500 meters. Ford Pro is also introducing new 180 kilowatt and 240 kilowatt DC fast chargers to offer drivers and fleet operators more versatility at their workplace with more power and shortened charge times.

Ted Cannis, Ford Pro CEO, commented further on the process: “We’re committed to helping businesses make the transition to electric easy with a single-minded focus on curated commercial charging solutions.” He added, “With our tailored EV consulting and portfolio of charging hardware and software solutions, we can design, implement and operate solutions for Ford and other brands that will last for many years to come. And we are not afraid to tell customers when electrification is not yet a good fit and support them with other solutions.”

Customer Assistance

Ford Pro’s BEV Fit team assists with charging site design and construction, helps customers recognize available incentives, and partners with local utilities on energy needs. Using Ford Pro charging solutions permits consumers to charge more automobiles at a given time and can allow them to deploy more electric vehicles without waiting for an infrastructure upgrade. The software tracks performance and provides fleet managers with detailed information about charging speeds, consumption of electricity, and available range. 

The new Ford Pro charging hardware is backed by a three-year warranty, and around-the-clock tech support is available. If your curiosity is piqued by Ford’s latest venture, please come visit NYE Ford. We strive to give our customers an exemplary shopping experience. We have a friendly and knowledgeable sales team that will make your buying, leasing, or selling needs an absolute breeze for anything in our new vehicle inventory. Are you considering one of our incredible used vehicles to take home? We have a plethora of options to choose from.