Ford Pro and Xcel Energy Pioneer Mass EV Charging Deployment

Ford Pro, the commercial division of Ford Motor Company, and Xcel Energy, a key player in the clean energy sector, have joined forces to embark on an ambitious mission: the installation of 30,000 electric vehicle (EV) charging ports in Xcel Energy service territories across the U.S. by 2030. This groundbreaking initiative aims to alleviate the upfront costs for qualifying business fleet customers, ensuring a smoother transition to electric mobility.

The collaboration between Ford Pro and Xcel Energy introduces the 30×30 initiative, an integral part of Xcel Energy’s broader Electric Vehicle Supply Infrastructure (EVSI) program. This strategic endeavor seeks to amplify EV adoption and accessibility to charging infrastructure specifically tailored for business fleets within Xcel Energy’s service areas.

Amanda Rome, Executive Vice President, Group President, Utilities & Chief Customer Officer at Xcel Energy, expressed enthusiasm about this innovative partnership. She emphasized the significance of Ford Pro’s expertise in fleet electrification and charging infrastructure, coupled with Xcel Energy’s profound advisory role in transportation electrification, as pivotal to making a substantial impact on the nation’s electrification future.

Commencing in 2024, the 30×30 initiative will initially roll out through Xcel Energy’s EVSI program in Colorado and Wisconsin. Plans for expansion into other states within Xcel Energy’s service territories—such as Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Texas—over the next six years are underway, subject to regulatory approvals.

Ted Cannis, CEO of Ford Pro, highlighted their dedication to simplifying the electrification transition for businesses. He stressed the importance of collaborating with Xcel Energy to eliminate barriers, ensuring a seamless and efficient transition towards electrification tailored to each business’s unique needs.

The essence of 30×30 lies in a simplified approach where Xcel Energy handles the installation of charging infrastructure for qualifying business customers enrolled in an approved EVSI program. Most upfront costs will be offset by Xcel Energy. Meanwhile, Ford Pro steps in to provide charging equipment, post-installation customer service, and support, offering a comprehensive suite of solutions to streamline the electrification process.

Business fleets stand to benefit from Ford Pro Intelligence, an integrated software and hardware package that includes smart charging software and connected solutions like Ford Pro Telematics. These solutions enable businesses to optimize charging schedules, increase vehicle uptime, and potentially reduce operational costs by leveraging vehicle and charger data.

Ford Pro’s commitment to zero tailpipe emissions is evident in its lineup of work-ready EVs like the F-150® Lightning® Pro pickup and E-Transit™ van, complemented by Ford Pro Charging hardware offering versatile charging solutions. The extended range of DC Fast Charger options provides fleet operators and drivers more flexibility and potentially shorter charge times, contributing to enhanced operational efficiency.

Moreover, Ford Pro and Xcel Energy intend to harness telematics data from participating vehicles to encourage off-peak commercial charging, reducing electric grid emissions and potentially offering cost savings to customers. This data-driven approach reflects a commitment to sustainability and cost-effectiveness.

The collaboration between Ford Pro and Xcel Energy sets a precedent for future synergies between energy and utility companies. It outlines a viable template for addressing the evolving EV charging infrastructure needs of businesses while championing environmental sustainability. The 30×30 initiative heralds a transformative era in which collaborative efforts between automotive and energy giants pave the way for a future where electrification is seamless, sustainable, and accessible to all.

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