Ford has announced the addition of three new charging providers to its BlueOval™ Charge Network: Francis Energy, Blink, and the imminent Red E. This expansion introduces more than 22,000 chargers, raising the network’s total to over 106,000 chargers. As a result, the BlueOval™ Charge Network stands as North America’s largest public charging network.
Why It Matters
The augmented network fortifies Ford’s commitment to providing seamless EV charging experiences to its customers in both the U.S. and Canada. By incorporating a vast array of charging options with features such as integrated charger routing and simplified payment methods via the FordPass® App, Ford aims to tackle the range anxiety commonly experienced by EV drivers.
Key Points
- Recent Growth: The inclusion of these new providers has resulted in more than 1,700 new DC fast-chargers and over 20,300 Level 2 chargers since Ford’s last update in May.
- Additional Participants: Other contributors to the BlueOval Charge Network’s expansion include established providers like Shell Recharge Solutions, Electrify America, ChargePoint, EVgo, EV Connect, FLO, and Electric Circuit.
- Tesla Superchargers: Ford has increased its initial estimate of Tesla Superchargers joining the network from 12,000 to over 15,000, set to be available in spring 2024.
- Dealer Involvement: Ford Model e dealers are set to integrate public-facing fast-chargers across the U.S. and Canada into the BlueOval Charge Network by early next year.
- Seamless Experience: The network operates as a “network of networks,” allowing users to access multiple charging providers without requiring multiple apps or memberships. It provides a unified payment method via the FordPass App or in-vehicle touchscreen.
Bottom Line
Ford’s continuous expansion of the BlueOval Charge Network emphasizes its dedication to enhancing the electric driving experience. With the upcoming addition of the Tesla Supercharger Network and new fast chargers at Ford Model e dealerships in 2024, the company is proactively addressing the challenges faced by EV drivers, reinforcing their position in the electrified future of the automotive industry.
