The electrification of some sectors will be more difficult than others. This is the case of large vehicles, such as trucks. Models are usually used to transport large loads and in problematic areas with no minimum load infrastructure. A niche in the market where Ford wants to try its luck with a range extender with the peculiarity of being easily removed from the vehicle.
In the patent filed with the United States authorities, Ford shows the system installed in an F-150 but does not directly specify that it will be developed for this vehicle. Something that would indicate that it could be used in other types of segments.
The idea would be to offer a range extender for electric models, which would run on gasoline or gas. All the components related to the generator, from the engine to the tank and the connection to the charging system, would be stored in the same piece.
A modular design that would allow the unit to be transferred from one vehicle to another, which will mean that with a few devices, different vehicles can be serviced according to each moment’s needs, which would undoubtedly have great potential in fleets.
At the moment from Ford, no technical details have been given beyond what we can see in the patent. But its potential would be significant if we consider that, for example, the future electric F-150, which will have up to 435 miles of electric autonomy, could significantly increase its range and possibilities by adding this element. Something that would earn you interest among a type of client who is usually conservative in these aspects.
It would also make it possible to complete large journeys at specific times, without the device’s extra weight on a day-to-day basis and freeing up the cargo area when necessary. Something that translates into greater flexibility when traveling, but also less consumption during normal days.
Of course, it remains to be seen if it is installed in another type of vehicle, how exhaust and safety are solved. But on paper, it seems like a very innovative idea that will allow us to extend the autonomy, and especially the customers’ confidence when it comes to replacing their polluting vans with electric models.