Summary
- Ford is considering charging EV battery packs from multiple charge ports simultaneously to reduce charging times
- A recent patent filing outlines the concept of dual charging ports, each responsible for charging a portion of the battery pack
- A partition system would allow sections of the battery pack to be charged individually or coupled together for conventional charging
- This approach differs from the double-layer method used by General Motors in some of their EV models
- The use of multiple charge ports for charging other EVs is not the focus of Ford’s patent, as they are focused on charging from opposite or same side ports on a vehicle; unlike some other EVs that have dual charge ports for convenience only.
Article
Ford is considering a new approach to EV charging that involves charging battery packs simultaneously from multiple charge ports in order to reduce charging times. The concept was outlined in a patent filing published by the USPTO on Nov. 12, 2024, but originally filed by Ford in December 2021. The setup includes dual charging ports that would be responsible for charging different sections of the battery pack from a single power source. A partition system would allow for individual charging of two or more sections of the battery pack or conventional charging by coupling them together.
This patent filing by Ford differs from General Motors’ approach in their electric vehicles such as the GMC Hummer EV, GMC Sierra EV, and Chevrolet Silverado EV. In GM’s approach, each layer of the battery pack is essentially an individual pack connected to the other in parallel. Ford’s concept involves an adapter that splits power from one connector to reach the two charge ports on the vehicle. This tandem charging system is designed to reduce charging times and improve overall efficiency.
General Motors also filed a patent in 2022 discussing the addition of a second port to optimize the charging process, allowing both layers of the battery pack to be charged individually from different ports. Ford’s recent patent filing mentions the placement of charge ports on opposite sides or the same side of the vehicle. While dual charge ports exist in some EVs for convenience, such as the Porsche Taycan and Audi E-Tron GT, Ford’s concept would allow for simultaneous charging from both ports, potentially reducing charging times significantly.
In addition to dual charge ports, Ford also explored the idea of using multiple ports to help charge other EVs, as discussed in a 2023 patent filing. However, this concept is not necessarily part of the current patent filing. The potential for charge ports on opposite sides of the vehicle may not be as convenient for charging another vehicle. Ford’s innovative approach to EV charging through simultaneous charging from multiple ports has the potential to revolutionize the charging process and reduce overall charging times for electric vehicles.
While some EVs already have dual charge ports for convenience, Ford’s concept would enable users to utilize both ports simultaneously for faster charging. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA will also feature dual ports—one for AC and one for DC—to provide drivers with more flexibility. Ford’s approach aims to enhance efficiency and speed up the charging process, ultimately making electric vehicles more convenient and practical for consumers. If this concept reaches production, it could set a new standard for EV charging technology in the automotive industry.
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