BMW, Ford, and Honda have officially launched ChargeScape, a new joint venture designed to integrate electric vehicles (EVs) into the power grid, enhancing grid stability while lowering charging costs for drivers. The initiative reflects the automakers’ ongoing commitment to electric mobility and reducing the total cost of ownership for EV customers.
ChargeScape’s platform connects EVs wirelessly to the grid, working in collaboration with participating utilities to manage electricity flow based on real-time grid conditions. Through smart charging (V1G), the system reduces demand during peak hours, and in some cases, enables vehicles to return energy to the grid (V2G).
This not only helps alleviate pressure on the grid but also provides financial incentives for EV owners. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 80% of EV charging occurs at home, making the potential savings particularly relevant for consumers.
“Joseph’s leadership and track record operating cleantech start-ups is precisely what we need to make ChargeScape a success,” said Shaun Bugbee, Chairman of ChargeScape’s Board and representative of BMW, as the joint venture announced the appointment of Joseph Vellone as CEO. Vellone brings over 15 years of experience in the energy and climate sectors, having previously been part of the founding team at ev.energy, where he spearheaded North American growth, partnering with over a dozen utilities and integrating 150,000 EVs.
ChargeScape’s technology builds on the automakers’ earlier work through the Open Vehicle-Grid Integration Platform (OVGIP), which has successfully partnered with utilities like Duke Energy, Xcel Energy, and Eversource Energy.
