TECH CHARGED EPISODE 7 - FORD EV ROUTE PLANNING, THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE FRUSTRATING

EV Channels Review

This episode of Tech Charged dives deep into the often frustrating world of EV route planning, specifically focusing on Ford's native navigation system. The hosts highlight significant shortcomings, particularly the inability to natively find Tesla Superchargers, a critical omission given the network's reliability and widespread availability. While Ford's system offers some conveniences like saving trips and preconditioning the battery (when connected to compatible chargers), it lacks crucial features found in competitors, such as setting minimum charge percentages or planning multi-stop routes with specific charging goals. The discussion also touches upon the unreliability of public charging networks like Electrify America, contrasting it with the generally more dependable Tesla experience. The F-150 Lightning is praised for its spaciousness, aftermarket accessory availability, and functional frunk, but its software and navigation capabilities lag behind Tesla's, which is seen as the benchmark for integrated EV route planning. The episode concludes that while Ford has made progress, its navigation system still requires substantial improvement to build true driver confidence on long journeys.