Ford Files a Patent that Could Facilitate EV Charging

Photo Source: Ford

The electric vehicle (EV) industry continues evolving rapidly, with new technologies and advancements being introduced regularly. One such development is the concept of Vehicle-to-Load (V2L), which permits electric vehicles to charge other electric vehicles, power electrical equipment, and even act as backup generators during power outages. On July 27th, 2023, a Ford patent application originally filed on January 26th, 2022, was published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The patent application displays a unique approach to sharing electric power among multiple vehicles from a single charging point. 

Layout of Ford’s Patent

Ford’s patent application outlines a bidirectional charging system that involves plugging a vehicle to charge and utilizing adapters to connect additional vehicles to the “chain.” The first vehicle’s charging port would serve as the power source, transmitting electricity through the adapter and a cable to another vehicle. While the patent diagrams depict three vehicles connected to the system, the exact number of vehicles that can be linked simultaneously remains unknown. 

What sets Ford’s approach apart is its ability to charge numerous vehicles on a single plug. This innovation could prove highly advantageous for fleet owners, eliminating the need for installing several chargers at a location. In addition, it could benefit remote job sites that lack permanent charging infrastructure. It is worth noting that this technology is still in the patent application stage, and there is no guarantee that it will make it to market. 

While current regulations do not allow charging cable extension cords, there does not appear to be any issue with permitting electric vehicles to link up at a single charging point. However, if Ford’s bidirectional charging system proves successful, it could revolutionize how electric vehicles are charged and shared.

The EV Industry’s Hurdles

Charging infrastructure remains one of the most challenging aspects of the electric vehicle industry. The costs involved in constructing a solid network of quick chargers, coupled with the vast size of the United States, make it a complex undertaking. To address this issue, many well-known automakers have formed cooperative affiliations to develop a comprehensive charging network. Moreover, numerous automotive manufacturers have opted to join Tesla’s Supercharger network, leveraging its extensive infrastructure. 

The Blue Oval’s bidirectional charging system could complement these efforts by offering an affordable solution for charging many vehicles simultaneously. Fleet owners, in particular, stand to benefit greatly from this innovation, as it reduces the need to install many chargers at their facilities. This could result in increased operational efficiency and significant cost savings. Even though the concept of bidirectional charging is not entirely new, Ford’s technique provides a different twist by enabling multiple automobiles to share power from a single charging point. This could have far-reaching implications for the electric vehicle industry, especially in terms of convenience.

Considerations to Take into Account

That said, the success of Ford’s bidirectional charging system will rely on myriad factors, including market demand and regulatory approvals. However, the patent application showcases the company’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle technology and finding inventive solutions to address the challenges associated with charging infrastructure.

If you support Ford’s efforts in shaping the future of sustainable transportation, please come visit Sunrise Ford. We have a large assortment of automobiles that may be of interest to you. From new to pre-owned vehicles, we have a committed sales team that can guide you through the process of a car buying experience.