Electric vehicle charging is a lifestyle that Ford is helping its customers grow accustomed to using the Blue Oval Network. The Blue Oval network is a term the Michigan-based automaker uses to describe its web of public chargers. With over 19,500 charging stations in its network, Ford customers can take their EV ownership to the next level. It's no longer news that most EV buyers are concerned about driving range and how it affects their daily commute. Admittedly, some EVs like the Rivian R1T (260 to 400+miles) and Mercedes EQS (340 to 350 miles) offer a respectable amount of range. However, these EVs typically belong to the luxury EV category, preventing the bulk of the customers from going after them.
However, Ford's Blue Oval Network makes a strong case for the switch to EVs. As a legacy automaker, Ford didn't need to do much to be seen as a threat in the market. Unlike startup Rivian, which built its EVs from scratch, Ford launched EV variants of existing models: the Mustang and F-150 truck. Both models have positively impacted the market, with the F-150 Lightning considered the most efficient electric pickup on sale today. Previously, the EV market danced to Tesla's tune. While the Elon Musk-led company still maintains a significant grip on the EV segment, there are more rival electric models than before.
Like most car manufacturers today, Ford has demonstrated its commitment to developing the EV scene. In July, it announced it built hands-free robotic EV charging stations designed for disabled drivers. Not only will this lessen the burden of charging faced by the target audience, but it will also likely drive Ford's EV sales. The Blue Oval Network is just another step in the company's campaign for the transition to electric cars. Ford claims that by providing thousands of charging stations and more chargers, charging stations would be as widespread as pharmacies and supermarkets are. This is a great development for any EV owner, as the U.S. suffers from a shortage of public chargers. The network can be accessed using the FordPass application and allows users to locate available charging stations, save favorites and determine charging costs.
How Ford's Charging Network Works
Several public charging providers partnered with Ford to keep the Blue Oval Network running smoothly. Some include popular names like Electrify America, EVgo and ChargePoint. To begin enjoying the network's perks, drivers just need to enable their access and use the FordPass app afterward. The app's Power My Trip feature lets users know the best places to stop and recharge while on the go. In addition, each purchase of the Mustang Mach-E or F-150 Lightning gets complimentary access for five years to the network. Subsequently, customers will need to pay to keep using the service.
With the network, Ford EV charging can be initiated by two methods. The first is termed "Plug and Charge," meaning that drivers can simply drive to a station and plug the vehicle. The other method involves using the FordPass app to activate charging. Additionally, customers can subscribe to an Electrify America-Blue Oval Network membership. Joining the program comes with reduced Pay-As-You-Go rates at any Electrify America station, the ease of making payments with the FordPay wallet, and more. An initial fee of $50 rewards the customer with a year's membership. Unfortunately, there's currently no auto-renew option.
Source: Ford