Ford Pro is introducing its Smart Charging Bundle to California, one of the nation's largest commercial fleet markets.

Easing EV Planning and Implementation

The Ford Pro Smart Charging Bundle, initially rolled out in Massachusetts, aims to help California businesses with electric vehicles in their fleet while improving operations and reducing upfront and ongoing EV charging costs.

The bundle offers a complimentary Ford Pro Level 2 48-amp charger or a Level 2 80-amp charger for depot and workplace charging to businesses subscribed to Ford Pro Charging software.

The new automated demand-to-grid response solution in Ford Pro’s Charging Software reacts to grid events in California such as high local demand by automatically pausing charging, alerting the customer, and resuming charging when the event is over.

This can help reduce the burden on the grid and reduce the risk of brownouts and blackouts for a more resilient power system, benefitting both businesses and residents. Avoiding blackouts can help fleet operators ensure their vehicles will always be able to be charged when needed.

"Everyone needs their vehicles to be ready to go, but it's even more pertinent for a business to know that no matter what, their vehicle is going to be fueled up and ready to go," Ford Pro Charging Business Development Director Aaron Schneider said. "If your vehicles aren't running, you’re losing money. And if you’re not making money, you’re out of business."

Ford Pro will manage the enrollment process for customers in California grid demand response programs that manage grid capacity, energy programs, and emergency load programs as well as the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) carbon credits program.

Providing Solutions as ACF Approaches

The Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) rule, which was finalized by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) in April 2023, will include what the agency calls 'high-priority' fleets beginning Jan. 1, 2025.

Those are defined as entities that own, operate, or direct at least one vehicle in California, and that have either $50 million or more in gross annual revenues, or that own, operate, or have common ownership or control of a total of 50 or more vehicles.

The Smart Charging Bundle can help fleets ensure they will have the charging capabilities needed when they receive their EVs, checking one component off the list.

“California is an EV pioneer, and new regulations aim to accelerate businesses’ electric transition,” Ford Pro CEO Ted Cannis said. “We’re here to do the heavy lifting and help companies navigate the complexities of electrification, helping them be more productive and efficient as they add EVs to their fleet. Our smart charging software helps businesses effectively manage their charging operations, including scheduled charging to avoid peak periods when electricity is in high demand at high rates and automated participation in grid events.”