Home Charging Costs for Businesses

[GoodSam]

240702 Tracking Charging Metrics for Ford F-150 Lightning

I asked Anthropic's ClaudeAI for an answer, but seems Teslafi (mentioned above) has figured it out and should be replicated for the Lightning EV:

https://claude.ai/chat/4302f321-538f-430a-b5d0-517adac89c94

what would be the easiest, yet automatic and complete, way to track charging costs, miles/kWhr, time of charge, charge rates, etc for a 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning electric vehicle? Could an App be made for a smartphone that could take in CarScanner OBD2 information automatically that would provide enough information? Charging at home uses a Tesla Gen 3 wall connector that does record charging history and rate, and DCFC systems like Electrify America or the newly available Tesla Superchargers may communicate as well.


To track charging costs, efficiency, and other metrics for a 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning, a smartphone app integrating various data sources would likely be the easiest and most comprehensive solution. Here's an overview of how this could work:

OBD2 Data: An app could indeed use data from an OBD2 scanner to collect important information. The Ford F-150 Lightning supports OBD2, which can provide:
Odometer readings
Battery state of charge
Energy consumption

Charging Data:
Home charging: The Tesla Gen 3 wall connector's charging history could be integrated into the app via its API or by manually inputting the data.
Public charging: Many networks like Electrify America have APIs that apps can use to gather charging session data. For Tesla Superchargers, the data might be available through the Tesla account associated with the charging.

Additional Data Sources:
GPS for location tracking
User input for electricity rates at home
Integration with platforms like PlugShare for charging station information

App Features: The app could automatically:
Calculate miles/kWh based on OBD2 data
Track charging costs by combining charging data with user-input or location-based electricity rates
Record charging times and rates
Provide insights on efficiency, cost per mile, etc.

Technical Considerations:
The app would need Bluetooth connectivity for the OBD2 scanner
API integrations for various charging networks
Secure data storage and processing

While an OBD2 scanner would provide valuable data, it might not capture everything. Some limitations could include:
Detailed charging data might still need to come from external sources
The app might need to estimate some values based on available data

An app like this is certainly feasible, though it would require significant development effort to integrate all these data sources seamlessly. Some existing apps like "A Better Routeplanner" or "Optiwatt" offer similar functionality, but a custom solution could be tailored specifically for the F-150 Lightning.

Would you like me to elaborate on any specific aspect of this potential app or the data collection process?

How is an App made that would accomplish these functions?

Creating an app to accomplish these functions involves several steps and components. Here's a high-level overview of the app development process:

Planning and Design:
Define the app's features and user interface
Create wireframes and mockups
Plan the app's architecture and data flow
Choose Development Platform:
Native development: iOS (Swift) and/or Android (Kotlin/Java)
Cross-platform: React Native, Flutter, or Xamarin for both iOS and Android
Consider factors like performance needs and developer expertise
Backend Development:
Set up a server to handle data processing and storage
Choose a database (e.g., PostgreSQL, MongoDB)
Implement API endpoints for data exchange between app and server
Frontend Development:
Build the user interface
Implement data visualization (charts, graphs)
Ensure responsive design for various screen sizes
Data Integration:
Implement OBD2 data collection via Bluetooth
Integrate APIs for charging networks (Electrify America, Tesla, etc.)
Develop algorithms for data analysis and calculations
Key Features to Implement:
User authentication and data security
Real-time data sync between device and server
Background data collection and processing
Push notifications for alerts or reports
Testing:
Unit testing of individual components
Integration testing of the entire system
User acceptance testing
Deployment:
Publish to app stores (Apple App Store, Google Play Store)
Set up monitoring and crash reporting tools
Maintenance and Updates:
Regular updates for bug fixes and new features
Ongoing support for users

Key Technologies and Libraries:

OBD2 Communication:
Libraries like python-OBD or OBD-II-PLX for handling OBD2 data
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE):
Core Bluetooth framework (iOS)
Android Bluetooth Low Energy API
Data Visualization:
Charts libraries like MPAndroidChart (Android) or Charts (iOS)
API Integration:
Networking libraries like Alamofire (iOS) or Retrofit (Android)
Database:
Core Data (iOS) or Room (Android) for local storage
Firebase or AWS for cloud storage and real-time sync
Location Services:
Core Location (iOS) or Google Location Services (Android)

Development Challenges:

Ensuring accurate data collection from multiple sources
Managing battery consumption due to constant background processes
Handling offline functionality and data syncing
Ensuring data privacy and security
Dealing with variations in OBD2 data across different vehicle models

This is a complex project that would require a team of developers with expertise in mobile development, backend systems, data analysis, and automotive systems. The development time could range from several months to a year, depending on the scope and complexity of features.

Would you like me to elaborate on any specific aspect of the app development process?
Claude can make mistakes. Please double-check responses.

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[GDN]

240702 Tracking Charging Metrics for Ford F-150 Lightning

I asked Anthropic's ClaudeAI for an answer, but seems Teslafi (mentioned above) has figured it out and should be replicated for the Lightning EV:

https://claude.ai/chat/4302f321-538f-430a-b5d0-517adac89c94

what would be the easiest, yet automatic and complete, way to track charging costs, miles/kWhr, time of charge, charge rates, etc for a 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning electric vehicle? Could an App be made for a smartphone that could take in CarScanner OBD2 information automatically that would provide enough information? Charging at home uses a Tesla Gen 3 wall connector that does record charging history and rate, and DCFC systems like Electrify America or the newly available Tesla Superchargers may communicate as well.


To track charging costs, efficiency, and other metrics for a 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning, a smartphone app integrating various data sources would likely be the easiest and most comprehensive solution. Here's an overview of how this could work:

OBD2 Data: An app could indeed use data from an OBD2 scanner to collect important information. The Ford F-150 Lightning supports OBD2, which can provide:
Odometer readings
Battery state of charge
Energy consumption

Charging Data:
Home charging: The Tesla Gen 3 wall connector's charging history could be integrated into the app via its API or by manually inputting the data.
Public charging: Many networks like Electrify America have APIs that apps can use to gather charging session data. For Tesla Superchargers, the data might be available through the Tesla account associated with the charging.

Additional Data Sources:
GPS for location tracking
User input for electricity rates at home
Integration with platforms like PlugShare for charging station information

App Features: The app could automatically:
Calculate miles/kWh based on OBD2 data
Track charging costs by combining charging data with user-input or location-based electricity rates
Record charging times and rates
Provide insights on efficiency, cost per mile, etc.

Technical Considerations:
The app would need Bluetooth connectivity for the OBD2 scanner
API integrations for various charging networks
Secure data storage and processing

While an OBD2 scanner would provide valuable data, it might not capture everything. Some limitations could include:
Detailed charging data might still need to come from external sources
The app might need to estimate some values based on available data

An app like this is certainly feasible, though it would require significant development effort to integrate all these data sources seamlessly. Some existing apps like "A Better Routeplanner" or "Optiwatt" offer similar functionality, but a custom solution could be tailored specifically for the F-150 Lightning.

Would you like me to elaborate on any specific aspect of this potential app or the data collection process?

How is an App made that would accomplish these functions?

Creating an app to accomplish these functions involves several steps and components. Here's a high-level overview of the app development process:

Planning and Design:
Define the app's features and user interface
Create wireframes and mockups
Plan the app's architecture and data flow
Choose Development Platform:
Native development: iOS (Swift) and/or Android (Kotlin/Java)
Cross-platform: React Native, Flutter, or Xamarin for both iOS and Android
Consider factors like performance needs and developer expertise
Backend Development:
Set up a server to handle data processing and storage
Choose a database (e.g., PostgreSQL, MongoDB)
Implement API endpoints for data exchange between app and server
Frontend Development:
Build the user interface
Implement data visualization (charts, graphs)
Ensure responsive design for various screen sizes
Data Integration:
Implement OBD2 data collection via Bluetooth
Integrate APIs for charging networks (Electrify America, Tesla, etc.)
Develop algorithms for data analysis and calculations
Key Features to Implement:
User authentication and data security
Real-time data sync between device and server
Background data collection and processing
Push notifications for alerts or reports
Testing:
Unit testing of individual components
Integration testing of the entire system
User acceptance testing
Deployment:
Publish to app stores (Apple App Store, Google Play Store)
Set up monitoring and crash reporting tools
Maintenance and Updates:
Regular updates for bug fixes and new features
Ongoing support for users

Key Technologies and Libraries:

OBD2 Communication:
Libraries like python-OBD or OBD-II-PLX for handling OBD2 data
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE):
Core Bluetooth framework (iOS)
Android Bluetooth Low Energy API
Data Visualization:
Charts libraries like MPAndroidChart (Android) or Charts (iOS)
API Integration:
Networking libraries like Alamofire (iOS) or Retrofit (Android)
Database:
Core Data (iOS) or Room (Android) for local storage
Firebase or AWS for cloud storage and real-time sync
Location Services:
Core Location (iOS) or Google Location Services (Android)

Development Challenges:

Ensuring accurate data collection from multiple sources
Managing battery consumption due to constant background processes
Handling offline functionality and data syncing
Ensuring data privacy and security
Dealing with variations in OBD2 data across different vehicle models

This is a complex project that would require a team of developers with expertise in mobile development, backend systems, data analysis, and automotive systems. The development time could range from several months to a year, depending on the scope and complexity of features.

Would you like me to elaborate on any specific aspect of the app development process?
Claude can make mistakes. Please double-check responses.

I've used Teslafi since 2018 on 3 different Tesla's. They have evolved and continued to enhance, great product with great depth of knowledge and control.

I checked with them 2 years ago and they wanted nothing to do with Ford/Lightning. They had their hands full still developing for Tesla. We've also seen that Ford is abysmal at allowing an API or anything to use your credentials to access your account. Ford is paranoid and still about 50 years behind, they think protectionism is still the way to go. I figure they are just really worried about their access and how fragile it might really be.

 

[bosox8]

Fortunate with Potomac Edison in Maryland my bill includes a breakdown of my charging (on a schedule 11pm - 6am for reduced rate):

 

[davehu]

Hi There. I wasn't sure about how electricity costs for businesses can be tracked for home charging.
Many owners/employees will be charging at home on personal hydro accounts and want to be compensated.
I've ordered a Lariat ER that will be a business vehicle and primarily charged at home. With my current ICE truck I have a company gas card so accounting is nice and easy. Is there a function in the Ford App that will track my home charging rates per month etc. so the company can reimburse me? Maybe the usage and costs can be exported to excel, quickbooks etc?
Any insight/experisence would be appreciated.
Thanks

my first thought was yes! however after reading your question more carefully it may not be what your asking for. However in Ford Pass - Energy - under Advanced, tap Charge Station There you can put in your electricity cost and see a total $$$ and Kwhr by day month, year. no way to export of course.

 

[hturnerfamily]

I think this question of 'exact' billing Utility charges for 'only' a specific company-owned vehicle being charged at an employee's home is problematic: unless you separately and independently METER that J1772 connection/NEMA 14-50 CIRCUIT, etc., and, secondly, ONLY if the employee is ONLY using this connection/outlet for the COMPANY vehicle's charging.

In my mind, and in order to keep this as SIMPLE as possible for both parties, I would not do ANYTHING different or separately at the employee's home, as far as 'monitoring' charging cost, since it is so problematic.


KISS !
I would then, monthly...

A) MONITOR: simply use the number of KWHs the vehicle has used, in the prior MONTH.
The TRIP METER is the easiest way to reveal this info... (Miles driven / mi/kWh average)
RESET this meter on the starting day(July 1), then RECORD this meter at the end(Aug 1)

B) REIMBURSEMENT: Calculate the employee's 'Average per KWH' from their most recent Utility bill, to establish a simple 'BRA'(base reimbursement rate) that equals their average cost for those additional KWH of power from charging the vehicle.

C) PAYMENT: Multiply the KWHs used(A) multiplied by the BRA(B) for the employee's REIMBURSEMENT amount.

employees who drive company vehicles, and have them parked at their own homes, and use their own electricity to charge those vehicles, need to take responsibility for the correct MONITORING and Utility Cost for their reimbursement. It's easy once started. RESETTING the Trip Meter is the main concern, to capture the next month's 'true' mi/kWh average.

 

[GoodSam]

Ford Pass - Energy - under Advanced, tap Charge Station There you can put in your electricity cost

Only works for the Ford connected wall EVSE's 48A and 80A.

 

[TaxmanHog]

The IRS rate of 67c / mile is more than generous enough even at exhobinant north east & cali energy costs.......

IR-2023-239, Dec. 14, 2023

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today issued the 2024 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes.

Beginning on Jan. 1, 2024, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (also vans, pickups or panel trucks) will be:

• 67 cents per mile driven for business use, up 1.5 cents from 2023.
• 21 cents per mile driven for medical or moving purposes for qualified active-duty members of the Armed Forces, a decrease of 1 cent from 2023.
• 14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations; the rate is set by statute and remains unchanged from 2023.

These rates apply to electric and hybrid-electric automobiles as well as gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles.

...................................

https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-is...-67-cents-a-mile-up-1-point-5-cents-from-2023

 

[hturnerfamily]

the 'business' issue with simply using miles driven x IRS 'per mile' reimbursement is that the owner(the business) is taking on all the maintenance and future repairs and replacement, which is what the IRS reimbursement is all about - the driver(the employee) only has the cost of electricity to reimburse.

Using the 'miles driven' reimbursement would certainly be a windfall for the employee, but a big LOSS for the business.


HaPPy FOURTH !
HaPPy Independence Day...

and may the FOURTH be with you : ) July 4th, too : )

 

[TaxmanHog]

the 'business' issue with simply using miles driven x IRS 'per mile' reimbursement is that the owner(the business) is taking on all the maintenance and future repairs and replacement, which is what the IRS reimbursement is all about - the driver(the employee) only has the cost of electricity to reimburse.

The owner of the vehicle could be the business or the employee

In the case of the employee providing the vehicle services to the employer, they are losing not just energy but wear & tear and accelerated depreciation, the c/mile covers it all for that situation +/- variation.

In the case of the employer providing the vehicle, they bare all the lost depreciation, wear & tear, the employee provides the energy, another factor based on mileage and a standardized value could compensate the employee for his electrons, does that cost value balance to the personal use factors of having the company truck at the house? 6 or one half dozen of another, y'all over thinking this

 

[RickLightning]

Resetting the Trip odometer is not going to work because the vehicle's battery receives less than 100% of the energy sent from the charger. For some level 2 chargers, it's 93%. For some it may be 90%. For level 1 it's closer to 85%.

The proper way to capture the energy used to charge the vehicle is one of the following:

1) An intelligent EVSE that captures the energy it sends.

2) A monitoring system like Emporia's Smart Home system.

 

[hturnerfamily]

my take was about the 'simplest' way, with what you ALREADY have at hand, to handle an 'employee reimbursement' situation: of course, you, as an employER could certainly 'add' or 'round up' the employee's Utility bill 'average kWh cost' to offset any loss of energy not reaching the vehicle...

it seems like these things can get too specific and detailed for some folk... after all, the employee is enjoying a 'free' vehicle to drive, where they have NO responsibility for costs, insurance, or maintenance/repair/replacement... it seems like any employee would be quite happy with that 'basic' and quite easy reimbursement arrangement, even if it's not 'exact'.

the other 'monitoring' options you mention, though, don't take into consideration that the employee could use those for charging OTHER EVs, which the employer is NOT responsible to reimburse for.

 

[TaxmanHog]

....... getting into the weeds about commiting fraud against your employer!

We have "LOG BOOKS" for mileage, you can add a columns for correlated charging for post travel day energy consumption, emporia logs, and cross audit the MPK consistency, really going into the weeds.

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