Ford plug-in hybrid vehicles rack up enough electric-only miles every day to drive around the earth nearly eight times – a number rapidly increasing as Ford continues investing in infrastructure while exclusive features like MyFord Mobile help improve driving habits.
Aggregate data from MyFord Mobile app show customers drive more than 8,400 electric-only miles every hour and about 203,000 electric-only miles daily – enough to travel around the earth’s equator nearly eight times.
MyFord Mobile is available on Ford plug-in hybrids, Fusion Energi and C-MAX Energi; and Focus Electric, a battery-electric vehicle.
The number of electric-only miles is expected to continue increasing, as data suggest driving habits evolve for new hybrid owners through the use of MyFord Mobile and other features such as SmartGauge® with EcoGuide. After six months, nearly 30 percent of all trips are gas-free compared with about 20 percent at the beginning of vehicle ownership.
MyFord Mobile – available through the App Store and Google Play – allows drivers to link up with their cars via an embedded AT&T wireless module that provides remote communication with the car to maximize utility and minimize operating costs; a multiyear wireless service subscription is included with every Ford electrified vehicle.
The data provide Ford decision makers with a clear picture of how vehicles are being used and are performing in the real world. A recent analysis found:
– Charge stations accessible through MyFord Mobile: 20,000
– Average number of trips between charges: Four
– Average number of charges per vehicle every week: 6.3
– Percent of Ford plug-in hybrids using level one charging stations: 70 percent
– Short trips: 83 percent of one-way trips are of distances 20 miles or less
Ford doesn’t collect information on individual drivers, but aggregates group data so that it can continue to deliver the best possible ownership experience.
For example, should MyFord Mobile data indicate customers aren’t getting the most from their battery when making short trips, customer service might decide to emphasize educating owners about proper use of the EV: Now feature that keeps the vehicle in electric-only mode.
MyFord Mobile data also helped Ford planners identify the need to launch an electrified vehicle charging network for employees. The company recently announced it will soon begin installing electrified vehicle charging stations at more than 50 of its company offices, product development campuses and manufacturing facilities.
Through the program, nearly every Ford facility in the U.S. and Canada will have at least one charging station.
Ford launches PowerUp Tour
The Ford PowerUp Tour launches this month in the northeast and western United States. These unique events are designed to help consumers learn about the many benefits of Ford plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles, and assess whether one of these vehicles fits their needs.
During the events, attendees will have the opportunity to test-drive Ford C-MAX Energi, Fusion Energi and Focus Electric against the competition. Trained electric vehicle subject matter experts will provide tips on maximizing the features of these vehicles, including fuel economy and technology capabilities.
Through the tour, Ford hopes to help consumers better understand how affordable plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles can be after considering the cost of ownership and fuel savings, as well as local tax incentives and benefits.
Everyone who attends an event and test-drives a vehicle will be able to enter for a chance to win a two-year lease on a Ford C-MAX Energi.
