Network and charging port: Ford signs an agreement with Tesla
The electrification of transportation will change the automotive world as we know it. Manufacturers must review their ways of doing things at the same time. Besides, Tesla is a true pioneer in its field, both in terms of transport electrification and in its way of doing things. It is for this reason that Ford seized the opportunity to conclude an agreement with the Californian manufacturer, under which it will benefit from the network of superchargers. In addition, in 2025 Ford vehicles will integrate a charging port like the one found on Tesla vehicles.
An extensive network for Ford customers
For customers of Ford electric vehicles, this is an advantage. In fact, in addition to having access to the public charging network, they will be able to have access to Tesla’s network of superchargers, which has 12,000 terminals, starting in the spring of 2024. Owners of Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning and E-Transit will be able to recharge in a V3 supercharger using an adapter developed by Tesla. This adapter allows these three vehicles currently equipped with a combined charging system (CCS) to connect to the Californian manufacturer’s network.
In addition, a software integration will be carried out to make everything functional. Ford customers will be able to activate and pay for charging through the app Ford Pass Or Ford Pro Intelligence. It should be noted that all of this will be possible on both the American and Canadian sides.
A new charging port, from 2025
In addition to this agreement, Ford will offer the North American Charging Standard (NACS) connector on its next-generation electric vehicles, starting in 2025. This is the same connector that we find on Tesla vehicles. With this addition, it eliminates the need for an adapter, thus making handling easier. Combined with the smaller, lighter size of Tesla’s supercharger guns, this will make the charging experience easier and more user-friendly, according to Ford.
However, the American manufacturer’s press release does not disclose whether the next-generation electric vehicles will only feature the NACS port with an adapter to the CCS, like current Tesla vehicles, or if they will have both charging ports, in 2025.
Conclusion
With this agreement between the two American manufacturers, Ford will take advantage of the network developed by Tesla. This will give it a competitive advantage. Indeed, Tesla’s network currently represents more than 12,000 additional charging locations for customers across North America. This kind of partnership allows Ford to stand out in its approach to electrification. It will be interesting to see if other automakers will emulate Ford and partner with Tesla.
