How The Ford E-Transit Is Improving Local Transportation In Ionia, Michigan

June 25th, 2024 by

Ford E-Transit being charged with Ford Pro Charging Software on the phone

Ionia’s Commitment To Sustainable Transportation

In the heart of Michigan, Ionia is a bustling rural city known for its close-knit community with a rough population of 13,000. As daily commutes and transportation needs grow, the need to provide more resources to residents became more evident to Heidi Wenzel, Ionia Dial-A-Ride Director.

Dial-A-Ride, operated by the City of Ionia, offers low-cost, curb-to-curb transportation within the city and nearby townships. Unlike traditional bus services, it operates on a demand-response basis, with no fixed routes. Passengers can schedule rides by calling ahead. Due to limited public transportation services, Dial-A-Ride is crucial for many residents to get around. The recent introduction of two new Ford E-Transit electric vans to their fleet is a significant enhancement for locals.

Community-Centered Transportation Solutions In Ionia

For many years, Dial-A-Ride has been a vital part of Ionia’s transportation system, ensuring seamless travel for residents. From parents shuttling their children to school, workers commuting, and seniors attending community events and medical appointments, Dial-A-Ride has been the backbone of Ionia’s transportation network.

Under Heidi Wenzel’s leadership, Dial-A-Ride has been striving to expand its reach and service. In an effort to be more environmentally conscious, Ionia has incorporated two Ford E-Transit vans into its fleet, thanks to a strategic grant from PowerMIFleet, supported by Michigan’s Consumers Energy. This advancement is a significant step toward sustainable public transportation without compromising mobility and inclusivity. Each van has been fitted to ADA standards, ensuring easy access for all Ionia residents to get where they need to go without difficulties. It also provides essential socialization opportunities to disabled riders and their caretakers.

Empowering The Ionia Community Through Opportunities

The introduction of E-Transit vans in Ionia provides more than an eco-friendly travel option; it opens up new employment opportunities. This transition makes it easier to hire drivers for the department’s growing needs. To drive the Ford E-Transit, employees only need a chauffeur’s license, compared to the commercial licenses required to drive the other buses in the fleet mounted to F-550 Super Duty chassis cabs. This change enables Dial-A-Ride to provide more job opportunities and expand its services in the community.

Ford Pro Charging

Ionia Dial-A-Ride has established an efficient charging routine using Level 2 chargers installed on the facility’s walls, allowing drivers to plug in their vehicles upon returning. Wenzel employs Ford Pro Charging Software to optimize this process, which helps monitor daily energy consumption, track the real-time charging status of the E-Transit vans, and schedule charging during off-peak hours. Ford Pro Charging software is a comprehensive management tool that helps the productivity and efficiency of business operations.

Custom Order The Ford E-Transit At Bill Brown Ford In Livonia, MI

The Ford E-Transit combines reliable Ford performance with advanced electric technology and provides an efficient and practical solution for businesses and individuals. Designed for versatility, the E-Transit offers ample cargo space and a range of upfitting options to meet various needs.

At Bill Brown Ford, located in Livonia, Michigan, we offer Ford’s entire Electric Vehicle lineup, including the F-150 Lightning, Mustang Mach-E, and E-Transit. This week, our local Ford Dealer Near you has over 1500 new Ford’s on our lot, including over 30 EV models. Shop our TrueViewâ„¢ Inventory or custom order your Ford EV with our easy configuration tool today.

 

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Posted in Ford Transit