Ford has filed a patent with the United States Patent and Trademark Office that could enable multiple electrified vehicles to charge on a single charger. The technology aims to combine vehicle-to-everything communication with bidirectional charging, allowing battery-electric vehicles (BEV) or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) to be charged at once, either individually or in order of preference.
The patent proposes that future Ford electric vehicles be equipped with two charge port assemblies. One port would be used traditionally to replenish the vehicle’s battery pack, while the other would serve as a plug socket, allowing another vehicle to be charged. Alternatively, a charging splitting adapter could be used.
Ford envisions various charging strategies, including distributed, waterfall, targeted, automated, and pay-for-use charging. The latter allows a surrogate vehicle to jump ahead of others by paying a fee to the host vehicle, an idea that could be facilitated through the FordPass app or other communication modules.
See also: Ford patents hands-free charging technology for electric vehicles
However, there are several potential drawbacks to such a communal system, such as the potential for unauthorized leeching, overcharging of batteries, and problems with one vehicle leaving before others. Nevertheless, Ford believes the technology could incentivize shared charge support as a mini business model for EV owners.
The technology could also be compatible with wireless charging, further streamlining the charging process. While there are challenges to overcome, Ford’s patent offers a glimpse of a future where electric vehicle charging is more efficient and convenient.
