Ford and PGE to Bring EVs to Oregon

Up until recently one of the most quiet manufacturers when it comes to talking about its future line of electric vehicles, American carmaker Ford is stepping up its efforts to create a good environment for its EVs to roll in starting next year.

The most recent announcement regards the partnership signed with Portland General Electric (PGE) for the implementation of a charging network in Portland and Oregon state. Before that can happen however, the two companies must find what are the requirements of installing such a network, as well as beginning to educate the public about this new way of motoring.

Earlier this month, PGE announced the opening of the US' first quick charging station for electric vehicles, installed at the company's World Trade Center headquarters. PGE currently own 20 operational charging stations in its area.

“Ford has an aggressive plan to bring five new electrified vehicles to market over the next two years including the Transit Connect Electric later this year and the Focus battery electric in 2011,” said Mike Tinskey, manager of Vehicle Electrification and Infrastructure at Ford.

“To support the roll out and acceptance of these vehicles it is important to work with local utilities to make sure the necessary infrastructure and grid capability are ready.”

The electric era for Ford will begin later this year with the release of the Transit Connect Electric and will be enhanced next year with the arrival of the Focus Electric. More hybrids and plug-in hybrids are planned for 2012.