Ford Pro, the commercial division of Ford, is collaborating with electric utility Xcel Energy to deploy 30,000 EV charging ports in Xcel service territories across the US by 2030.

The companies’ 30×30 initiative is a part of Xcel Energy’s Electric Vehicle Supply Infrastructure (EVSI) program. As part of this effort, Xcel Energy will offset most of the up-front costs for EV charging equipment and installation for qualifying businesses, and Ford Pro will offer its suite of end-to-end charging solutions to Xcel business customers.

Business fleets can also benefit from Ford Pro Intelligence, which offers smart charging software and connected solutions such as Ford Pro Telematics, which helps businesses to optimize when and where EVs are charged, while ensuring that they’re charged and ready when needed.

Ford Pro offers the F-150 Lightning Pro pickup and E-Transit van, a range of charging hardware—including 48- and 80-amp Level 2 chargers and 180 kW and 240 kW DC fast chargers—and Ford Pro Charging software, which supports home, public and depot chargers.

Ford Pro and Xcel plan to analyze telematics data from vehicles participating in the initiative to promote commercial charging during off-peak times, helping reduce electric grid emissions and potentially saving customers money.

Starting in 2024, 30×30 will be available through Xcel Energy’s EVSI program in Colorado and Wisconsin. The program will be expanded to more states over the next six years (pending regulatory approvals), including Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota and Texas.

“Ford Pro and Xcel Energy are pioneering a new way to scale EV charging infrastructure,” said Xcel Energy Executive VP Amanda Rome. “Ford Pro is a trusted provider in fleet electrification, scaling charging infrastructure for fleets with smart vehicle, charging and software solutions. And Xcel Energy is a trusted advisor in transportation electrification, providing energy, infrastructure and innovative solutions for customers’ homes, businesses and EVs.”

“We know electrification can be complex for businesses,” said Ted Cannis, Ford Pro CEO. “We’re focused on helping them make that transition at the right time in the right way that’s best for their business.”

Source: Ford Pro