Ford has announced two new bidirectional charging solutions for its upcoming Fathom electric pickup truck, allowing owners to power their homes, reduce electricity costs and potentially supply energy to the grid. The charging equipment is expected to cost approximately 50% to 60% less than Ford’s previous systems, while the Fathom will start at $28,350 when it launches in 2027.
The company said the Fathom will deliver more than 10 kilowatts of power to a home, providing an alternative to conventional standby generators during outages. According to Ford’s October 27 announcement, the truck’s integrated power conversion system eliminates the need for a separate wall-mounted inverter.
New Charging Systems Offer Home Power Management and Backup
Ford’s Home Power Station will allow owners to charge their vehicles when electricity rates are lower and supply stored energy back to their homes during peak pricing periods. The device is expected to cost approximately $650, about half the price of Ford’s first-generation bidirectional charger, although the company has not finalized pricing.
The second option, Home Backup Power, combines the Home Power Station with a Home Backup Panel to supply electricity during grid outages. The package is estimated to cost around $2,100, approximately 60% less than Ford’s previous home backup equipment.
Neither price includes installation, which can cost thousands of dollars depending on a property’s electrical infrastructure. Existing bidirectional charging installations can cost up to $10,000, while Ford has yet to announce installation partnerships or detailed installation requirements.
The Fathom’s power output could keep essential household appliances, including refrigerators and air conditioners, operating during outages. However, the number of supported appliances and backup duration will depend on household electricity demand, installation specifications and the power required to start certain equipment.
Ford Plans Grid Integration Through Virtual Power Plants
Both charging solutions are designed to support participation in virtual power plants, which coordinate distributed energy resources such as electric vehicles to supply electricity when needed. Under these programs, participating Fathom owners could sell stored electricity back to utilities while keeping their vehicles connected to compatible charging equipment.
Potential payments can exceed $1,000 annually under some virtual power plant arrangements, although Ford has not disclosed expected earnings for Fathom owners. Participation and compensation will depend on local utility programs, electricity demand and applicable regulations.
Ford is also working with utilities to address grid interconnection requirements and simplify access to bidirectional charging programs. The company has not announced when its new charging hardware will become available or confirmed final equipment and installation prices.
Featured image credits: Wikimedia Commons
For more stories like it, click the +Follow button at the top of this page to follow us.