(October 6, 2010) NEW YORK — Ford Motor Company and the New York Power Authority (NYPA) have announced they are coordinating efforts to help prepare the state of New York for the operation of electric vehicles.

Ford and NYPA will work together to develop consumer outreach and education programs on electric vehicles as well as share information on charging needs and requirements to ensure the electrical grid can support the necessary demand.

The collaboration between Ford and NYPA was announced during Ford’s “Charging Into the Future Electric Vehicle Tour,” which visited New York City on Monday.  The 14-city tour, which kicked off at Portland State University in Portland, Ore. in August, promotes Ford’s electric vehicle strategy and educates consumers about what to expect from electrified automobiles and what is needed from the public and private sector to support this new technology.

“Ford plans on bringing five new electrified vehicles to market over the next two years including the Transit Connect Electric later this year and the Focus battery electric in late 2011,” said Sherif Marakby, Director of Electrification Programs and Engineering, Ford Motor Company.

“We know there is an incredible excitement for electric vehicles in the New York area and across the country. To support the rollout and acceptance of these vehicles, it is crucial to work with utilities, like NYPA, to make sure the necessary infrastructure is ready.”

Cooperation between Ford and NYPA also involves working with the state and local governments on the most efficient ways to bring EVs to New York.  Ford and NYPA are working together to educate fleet owners about their options when it comes to electric vehicles.

The collaboration between Ford and the New York Power Authority builds on an existing partnership involving the Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle Demonstration Program.  The program, which began nearly two years ago, has generated real world experience with these advanced technology vehicles by using them in real world driving situations.

Over the next two years, Ford will introduce the Transit Connect Electric small commercial van, the Ford Focus Electric passenger car, two third generation lithium-ion battery hybrids (2012) and a plug-in hybrid (2012).