Boosting EV Efficiency with Ford’s Innovative Heat Pump Technology

Electric vehicles are revolutionizing the transportation industry, and Ford is at the forefront of this change, especially for businesses relying on electric vans. However, one significant challenge of driving EVs in colder climates is the reduction in battery range caused by the need to keep the cabin warm during chilly temperatures. Ford’s solution? A patented technology called the Vapour-Injected Heat Pump (VIHP), which helps maximize efficiency, particularly in winter conditions.

This cutting-edge technology is standard in the European Ford E-Transit Custom, E-Tourneo Custom, and enhanced range E-Transit models. It works by capturing heat from the air outside, even when temperatures dip below 20°F, to warm the cabin. This “free” heat energy reduces the power needed to operate the vehicle’s heater, meaning more energy remains in the battery for driving. 

Ford’s real-world and lab tests have shown that the VIHP can improve the driving range of the enhanced range E-Transit by up to 10%, providing a significant boost in productivity. As Ingo Krolewski, Ford’s supervisor for Climate Attribute and Controls, says, “We’re chasing every kilometre to maximise efficiency and make electric fleets more productive and cost-effective for hard-working businesses.”

The heat pump technology works similarly to those found in homes and offices, using refrigerant gases to absorb heat from the air. But what sets Ford’s VIHP apart is its use of vapour injection, which makes the system even more efficient for both heating and cooling the cabin. During warmer weather, when temperatures surpass 70°F, the VIHP’s integrated cooling system helps extract heat from the cabin, reducing the battery drain caused by air conditioning.

The development of this advanced technology involved more than two years of testing, with over 100 wind tunnel tests and 15,000 miles of on-the-road evaluation. Ford’s engineering teams in the UK, Germany, and the US collaborated closely to refine the technology, ensuring that it performs exceptionally well under all conditions, from the sweltering summer heat of Iberia to the freezing winters in Finland.

By equipping their vehicles with Ford’s VIHP, businesses using electric vans can experience greater driving range, improved efficiency, and better overall performance – helping them stay productive throughout the year, no matter the weather.