Ford announced today that it has developed a smart vehicle-to-grid system for its plug-in hybrid electric vehicles that communicates directly with the electric grid.
The new technology allows a car's owner to programme when to recharge the vehicle, for how long and at what rate.
The first of the specially equipped plug-in hybrids has already been delivered to a customer and Ford expects its entire fleet of plug-in hybrid Escapes (just 21 strong at the moment) to eventually be equipped with the system.
You might need a weatherman to know which way the wind blows
When plugged in, the battery systems of the new plug-in hybrids use wireless networking to communicate directly with the electrical grid via smart meters provided by power companies. The owner uses the vehicle's touch screen navigation interface and in-dash computer to choose when the vehicle's charging profile.
For example, you could choose to accept a charge only during off-peak hours at night when electricity rates can be cheaper, or only when the grid is using renewable energy such as wind or solar power.
"We are designing what plug-in hybrids and battery electric vehicles will be capable of in the future," said Greg Frenette, manager of Ford's Battery Electric Vehicle Applications. "Direct communication between vehicles and the grid can only be accomplished through collaboration between automakers and utility companies, which Ford and its partners are demonstrating with this technology."
Ford plans to invest nearly £8.5 billion in advanced technology vehicles in the next seven years, bringing the Transit Connect battery electric vehicle to market in Europe in 2010, followed by an all-electric Ford Focus car in 2011.
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evlover
August 20th
1. this is just one more news article that disproves another baseless myth about electric vehicles- not to mention that as the demand for electricity grows, so will the grid. Electric cars are safe, clean, and efficient. And, with electric cars we can save our economy (using domestic energy, lowering our trade deficit, building jobs), while also helping reduce pollution. Electric cars are the future- as soon as affordable ones are on the market. For an insightful, readable, and eye-opening introduction to the benefits and history of electric cars, I recommend the book "Two Cents Per Mile" by Nevres Cefo. Did you know that electric cars have been driving on u.s. roads for over a decade? (check out the Toyota RAV4-ev!). Check out http://www.twocentspermile.com and http://bit.ly/2centsbook to learn more
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