Ford and Microsoft just announced an agreement to work together to create more effective and affordable recharging solutions for Ford electric car drivers. With the Microsoft Hohm™ energy management application, owners will be able to decide the best time to recharge their EVs for the most efficient and affordable charging. Microsoft Hohm will be available for use with the electric version of the Focus starting next year.

Microsoft Hohm can also help utilities manage the effect that increasing numbers of EV owners are expected to have on the power grid.

In a press release, Steve Ballmer, Microsoft CEO, explained the significance of the agreement:

“Electric vehicles will play an important role in the global effort to improve energy efficiency and address the issues of climate change and sustainability. But as the market for electric vehicles expands, it will have a significant impact on home energy consumption and demand across the nation’s energy grid. 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.”