Ford Pushes for Electric Vehicle Readiness in U.S.

From Ford.com:

While Ford is gearing up to launch the all-new Focus Electric later this year and C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid in 2012, cities around the country also are preparing for the arrival of new electric vehicles. Some of the key actions Ford has identified in working with cities and utility partners include:

•Utility rate structure that encourages "off-peak" or nighttime EV charging to minimize demand on the existing electric grid

•Streamlined permitting and inspection process to support customer and commercial EV infrastructure installation

•Integrated advisory committees that include participation from electric utilities, vehicle manufacturers and dealers, municipalities, EV customers and local coalitions

•Urban planning approach to optimize public/commercial EV charge locations

•Infrastructure incentives to offset a portion of customer costs for hardware/installation

“As more and more electric vehicles come to market, it’s incredibly important that cities develop action plans including infrastructure development and permitting solutions to ensure these vehicles are a viable solution for citizens,” said Mike Tinskey, Ford’s manager of Vehicle Electrification and Infrastructure. “Ford continues outreach with cities across the country to spread best practices and work with multiple partners including local utilities, auto manufacturers, technology companies and others to support a successful integration of electric vehicles.”

Read entire article here.

Learn more about Ford's electric vehicle options at Lakewood Fordland.