Robert Hayes’ journey into the world of electric vehicles began with a revelation behind the wheel. After years as a Ford engineer working on projects from climate control systems to powertrain strategies, a test drive in an electric car left an indelible impression. The silent yet powerful performance and instant torque ignited a passion for electrification that would shape his career.
In 2021, Hayes became one of the first Mustang Mach-E owners, embarking on a 70,000-mile road trip across North America over three years. These travels weren’t just for leisure, though they included stops at national parks.
READ MORE: Mobilisights Offers Free Data Pack Trial for Fleet Managers
Hayes used the experience to rigorously test his EV and explore the broader electric vehicle ecosystem. Along the way, he faced the same challenges many EV drivers encounter, especially around public charging reliability. These frustrations became the catalyst for his mission to improve the EV charging experience.
Hayes’ extensive on-the-road experience proved invaluable when he transitioned to Ford’s Model e team. Initially drawn to roles focused on charging infrastructure reliability, his hands-on knowledge and genuine passion for EVs caught the attention of Ford’s customer experience team.
His approach to the work is deeply personal, informed by countless conversations with fellow drivers and his own lifestyle. Having electrified his home with solar panels, powered his F-150 Lightning, and even swapped his gas furnace for a heat pump, Hayes embodies the EV experience in every facet of his life.
“People often say, ‘An electric vehicle just wouldn’t work for me,’” Hayes explains. “I’ve proven otherwise, from city commutes to cross-country road trips and even an 1,800-mile journey north of the Arctic Circle. I speak from experience when addressing skepticism.”
Hayes’ passion extends to making public charging less intimidating and more accessible. While home charging remains the easiest option for many, he works to bridge the gap by ensuring public charging becomes equally reliable and straightforward. He regularly collects feedback from customers to refine Ford’s charging strategies and make EV ownership seamless.
At the heart of Hayes’ mission is the belief that electric vehicles are “go anywhere, do anything” machines. By making public charging stress-free, he’s helping to eliminate barriers for drivers and proving that EVs aren’t just the future of transportation—they’re an exciting new way to hit the road today.
READ MORE: You can own your own military tank – but it’ll set you back £220,000
Subscribe today for the freshest car news delivered to your inbox
