Businesses across the Southeast are taking significant steps toward electrifying their fleets, thanks to a new collaboration between Ford Pro and Southern Company. 

The two companies have launched a six-month pilot program to help businesses navigate the challenges of transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs) while demonstrating the value of EVs in fleet operations.

With over 100,000 EVs already on the roads in Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi, fleets are increasingly seeking sustainable solutions to reduce fuel costs and lower their total cost of ownership. However, making the shift requires more than just swapping gas-powered vehicles for EVs. 

Ford Pro and Southern Company aim to create a comprehensive electrification blueprint that addresses charging infrastructure, energy management, and operational efficiencies.

Tackling Fleet Electrification Challenges

The pilot program will see more than 200 electric trucks integrated into Southern Company’s fleet and supported by over 150 chargers at existing depots. The companies are focusing on optimizing depot charging practices, reducing electricity use during peak hours, and ensuring maximum vehicle uptime.

Southern Company’s charging depots will leverage Ford Pro’s advanced software to track and manage vehicle data, allowing fleet operators to automate charging schedules. This process will help reduce electricity costs, improve operational efficiency, and ease the strain on the electric grid.

“This isn’t just about plugging in vehicles and hoping for the best,” said Ananya Gupta, senior product manager at Ford Pro Charging. “It’s about creating a flexible, scalable model that businesses can use to successfully navigate the transition to electric vehicles and unlock all their benefits.”

Ford Pro Intelligence software will analyze the charging behavior of the vehicles in the pilot, helping Southern Company fine-tune its approach to managed charging programs. By understanding how to balance energy loads and avoid peak demand charges, Southern Company can improve its fleet operations while providing insights to its commercial customers interested in going electric.

Building a Blueprint for a Greener Fleet Future

The collaboration is about more than improving fleet efficiency; it’s about supporting grid resilience and sustainability. Hank Adams, Southern Company’s senior vice president of customer solutions, explained that the pilot aims to create long-term value by addressing the technical and operational challenges associated with EV adoption.

“Our collaborative pilot brings together our shared vision for innovative EV fleet programs that not only enhance fleet operations but also contribute to grid resilience,” Adams said. “This is a key step in building a clean and efficient energy future.”

By the end of the six-month program, Ford Pro and Southern Company will deliver an electrification blueprint that can be adopted by other businesses. This roadmap will guide companies through the process of managing EV fleets efficiently, reducing costs, and improving sustainability goals.

As more fleets explore electrification, this pilot is expected to provide valuable insights for businesses across the U.S. The lessons learned will help fleet managers optimize their operations, avoid costly pitfalls, and position their organizations for long-term success in a rapidly evolving industry.

Stay tuned for updates as Ford Pro and Southern Company continue to lead the charge in fleet electrification, paving the way for a more sustainable future in fleet management. Subscribe to Work Truck's eNewsletters so you never miss an update!