Ford became the first automaker to agree to use Microsoft’s Hohm smart grid software for electric cars, deepening the relationship between the two companies.
Ford goes Hohm, expects to use the smart grid electric car recharging software in its Focus Electric in 2011
Ford already relies on Microsoft’s Windows Embedded Automotive software in its Sync in-car communications and entertainment system, now installed in 2 million cars.
Hohm will first appear in Ford’s Focus Electric vehicle in 2011 and enable drivers to determine when to recharge their cars and how to conserve energy at home during recharging. It is estimated electric cars will double home energy use, so scheduling a battery recharging when rates are low and demand elsewhere in the home is modest can be key.
The companies did not discuss financial arrangements in a press release issued Wednesday at the New York International Auto Show. But Hohm, which provides insight into energy use, is presently available for free to consumers.
Microsoft and Ford said they would work with utilities to jointly advance energy management efforts as electric cars gain wider use.
Clearly both companies value the new relationship. The press release included comments attributed to both CEOs. “Today, we begin the next major step in our working together and leading the way for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability,” said Ford CEO Alan Mulally.
“With Microsoft Hohm, Ford and Microsoft will deliver a solution that will make it easier for car owners to make smart decisions about the most affordable and efficient ways to recharge electric vehicles, while giving utilities better tools for managing the expected changes in energy demand,” added Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer.
Posted by Mark Boslet 
