Ford Debuts an App to Simplify the Electric Vehicle Charging Process

Photo Source: Ford

Ford electric vehicle (EV) owners are in for an electrifying treat as the automaker presents a revolutionary upgrade to its charging experience. Beta testers are currently getting a taste of a state-of-the-art feature set to be integrated into all new Ford electric vehicle models. To clarify, this software update aims to streamline and simplify the charging process, offering an unsurpassed level of convenience for Ford electric vehicle enthusiasts.

The Inception of Charge Assist

Initially launched in Europe last April of the 2023 model year via the SYNC 4 infotainment system, Charge Assist was designed to help electric vehicle drivers locate nearby charging stations. Now, however, Ford has extended access to a select group of beta testers in the United States, with plans to make it available to all of the Blue Oval’s electric vehicle owners. The feature debuted in September 2023 through an over-the-air (OTA) update, as reported by CarsDirect. 

Not to mention, the manufacturer has taken the Charge Assist feature a step further by enabling users to not only find the nearest charger but also to initiate and complete the charging process all from the comfort of their electric vehicle. In other words, this means consumers no longer have to depend on a smartphone application like FordPass or a third-party alternative. Customers simply need to access the Charge Assist application through their Ford electric vehicle’s infotainment system, activate it, and the cost will be conveniently charged to their FordPass credit card on file.

Positive Response

Early feedback from beta testers has been overwhelmingly positive. As a matter of fact, one user, @Jacecraftmiller, expressed their enthusiasm on X/Twitter, stating, “Super simple. Just open the Charge Assist app on your Ford EV infotainment. It finds the closest fast charger, gives you the status of each port, and allows you to activate it right from your vehicle! Charges right to your FordPass CC on file. When you don’t have P&C this is awesome.” 

Once the driver’s charging session is complete, they can effortlessly end it from either the vehicle or the charger itself. It is worth noting that this feature is compatible with any charger in the BlueOval Charge Network, including Electrify America, Shell Recharge, ChargePoint, EVgo, EV Connect, FLO, Electric Circuit, and Blink, with more on the horizon.

Enlightening YouTube Video

Ford Pro, the company’s commercial and software unit, has released an informative video on YouTube, showcasing how the feature caters to fleet use. This illustrates Ford’s dedication to not only revolutionize personal electric vehicle experiences but also contribute to a more sustainable future for commercial vehicle operations. Indeed, the introduction of this groundbreaking charging feature is set to transform the electric vehicle landscape, with plans to implement it across all Ford electric vehicles, including the sleek Mustang Mach-E, the highly anticipated F-150 Lightning, and the versatile E-Transit.

Ford continues innovating and introducing new features to enhance electric vehicle ownership. For example, Ford was the first major automaker to announce it was adopting Tesla’s NACS plugs, an example which GM, Volvo, Rivian, Polestar, Nissan, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, and more have followed. Even Jim Farley, Ford’s CEO, is thoroughly inspired by the possibilities of over-the-air updates: Since “outstanding hardware styling, performance, and quality are just a given” in the electric vehicle era, “The best new brands are offering integrated digital, retail, lifestyle and experiences that are software-defined,” Farley explained.

If you are impressed by Ford’s inventiveness, please come visit Sunrise Ford. We can help sell your current vehicle or bring it back to life like new with an online service appointment at our service center. Allow our professional technicians to get started on all repairs or maintenance work your vehicle may require.