Ken Grody Ford and Motive Energy Partner to Showcase the Business Case for EV Charging, Solar, and Battery Storage Integration
BUENA PARK, Calif., April 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ken Grody Ford, the #1 Ford dealership in customer satisfaction and a trusted name in automotive sales and service for over 40 years, is setting the standard for innovation and customer experience. Known for its exceptional service, extensive inventory, and deep community ties, Ken Grody Ford continues to lead the industry by investing in forward-thinking solutions.
As part of this commitment, the dealership has partnered with Motive Energy, ranked 8th by Solar Power World among Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) firms in California, to implement a cutting-edge energy infrastructure upgrade at its Buena Park location. This initiative highlights how integrating EV charging, solar power, and battery energy storage systems (BESS) can enhance efficiency, stabilize energy costs, and position dealerships as leaders in sustainable mobility.
By offering EV charging, dealerships become valuable resources for EV drivers looking for convenient charging while shopping, servicing their vehicles, or passing through. When combined with solar energy and battery storage, the cost of electricity powering these chargers is significantly reduced, accelerating the return on investment. BESS plays a critical role by storing excess solar energy for use during peak demand times, further lowering costs and maximizing energy efficiency. This approach also protects dealerships from rising electricity costs while reinforcing their commitment to innovative, sustainable business practices.
The Ken Grody Ford project is being executed in three phases:
- Phase 1: Installation of 26, Level 2 electric vehicle chargers, now fully operational.
- Phase 2: Completion of three high-capacity Level 3 (200kW) chargers to expand rapid-charging capabilities, which are open for public charging 24/7.
- Phase 3: Installation of 1,630 solar modules (540W each) and a 753kWh battery energy storage system.
This initiative has received clearances from Southern California Edison (SCE) and local building authorities, with Phase 3 construction set to begin soon.
Ken Grody, CEO of Ken Grody Ford, said:
At Ken Grody Ford, we are always looking for ways to better serve our customers and community,
“By investing in EV charging and sustainable energy solutions, we are enhancing convenience and providing greater value for our customers. We’re proud to be a trusted destination for EV drivers and to contribute to the future of transportation.”
Bob Istwan, CEO of Motive Energy, added,
This project shows how dealerships can turn sustainability investments into a competitive advantage.
“By integrating solar power and battery storage with EV charging, Ken Grody Ford is optimizing energy costs and positioning itself as a leader in the EV transition.”
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Ken Grody Ford and Motive Energy Partner to Showcase the Business Case for EV Charging, Solar, and Battery Storage Integration, source
