In a significant move for electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure and cooperation between automotive giants, Ford EV owners now have the green light to use Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network.
This breakthrough partnership introduces a fast charging adapter, bridging Ford’s electric vehicles with the Tesla Supercharger system, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of electric mobility.
Unveiling the Adapter
As of today, Ford (F) has initiated a program that will significantly enhance the mobility of its electric vehicle owners by providing access to Tesla’s (TSLA) Supercharger network.
This collaboration comes to life with the introduction of a Fast Charging Adapter, exclusively designed, engineered, and supplied by Tesla. This adapter becomes the key for Ford EV owners to tap into an expansive network previously exclusive to Tesla models.
Owners of Ford electric vehicles can now request one free adapter per EV by using their FordPass credentials, a service primarily for accessing Ford’s own BlueOval network of chargers.
For those seeking additional adapters, Ford has set a purchase price at $230 after June 30, demonstrating their commitment to accessibility with a first-come, first-served policy.
Demand Surges
With Ford’s significant EV sales figures from the previous year, highlighting over 76,600 vehicles including the popular Mach-E crossovers and Lightning pickups, demand for these adapters is expected to ramp up quickly.
This initiative raises questions about supply availability and future distribution plans for new Ford EV purchasers post the initial offering phase.
Streamlined Access and Integration
The process for Ford EV owners to utilize the Tesla Supercharger network appears seamless. The FordPass App or the in-car Charge Assist app serves as a navigator to locate and access over 15,000 Tesla Superchargers.
By connecting the Ford-designed adapter to the Tesla plug, owners can charge their vehicles with the efficiency and ease akin to Tesla models, with all cost and billing information integrated within the FordPass account.
Although this partnership broadens the supercharging options for Ford EV owners, it’s important to note the compatibility issues with Tesla’s older V2 superchargers, which will not support Ford’s vehicles.
First-Hand Experience
Yahoo Finance got a hands-on test of this Tesla-made adapter with a Ford F-150 Lightning at a supercharger station in Northern New Jersey.
The adapter’s quality build and ease of use in connecting to Tesla’s charging infrastructure were highlighted, underscoring the practicality and potential of this cooperation.
Looking ahead, Ford plans to integrate Tesla Supercharger location information into both Apple Maps EV Routing (with Apple CarPlay) and Google Maps EV Routing (with Android Auto), promising an even more integrated charging experience for Ford EV owners.
The Big Picture
This collaboration between Ford and Tesla could be a turning point for the electric vehicle market, breaking down barriers between competing manufacturers and fostering a more unified approach to supporting EV adoption.
By sharing critical charging infrastructure, Ford and Tesla are setting a precedent for cooperation that benefits the consumer and the environment alike.
With the promise of more extensive access, convenience, and the potential for future integrations, the path to an electric future looks more electrified and interconnected than ever.
As this unique partnership unfolds, it could pave the way for further collaborations across the industry, reinforcing the shared goal of a sustainable, electric-powered mobility landscape.
