Earlier this week, Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) unveiled its new smart charging system for its up-coming all electric and electric hybrid vehicles - a battery electric Transit Connect commercial van in 2010, a battery electric Focus compact car in 2011, and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle and next-generation hybrid electric vehicle in 2012.
The smart charging system, allows for communication between the vehicle and the electric grid for optimal recharging. Owners can set parameters such as charge duration and utility rate in order to maximize charging during off-peak energy hours or even during hours when the grid is using renewable energy.
When plugged in, the battery systems of these specially equipped plug-in hybrids communicate directly with the electrical grid via smart meters provided by utility companies through wireless networking. The owner uses the vehicle’s touch screen navigation interface and an in-dash computer to choose when the vehicle should recharge, for how long and at what utility rate.
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“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.”
http://www.energyboom.com/transportation/ford-gets-smart-battery-charging-technology
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