Ford patents puddle light system to display EV charge status
Ford has filed a patent for a puddle light system that projects an electric vehicle’s battery charge level onto the ground, offering drivers a quick visual check before entry.
Ford has patented a system that uses puddle lights to project an electric vehicle’s battery charge status onto the ground, allowing owners to check the remaining charge before unlocking or entering the car. The patent describes integrating the display into the existing ambient lighting found in door mirrors or handles.
Puddle lights are typically fitted to the underside of side mirrors or door handles, illuminating the area next to the car for visibility and convenience. Ford’s patent proposes using these lights to project information such as the state of battery charge, which is usually only visible on the dashboard once the vehicle is switched on.
How the system works
According to the patent, the puddle light could project the charge status onto the ground, or, if aimed upwards, onto a nearby wall or ceiling. Ford prefers the side mirror location, as it offers enough space for the necessary lighting arrangement and is positioned at a suitable height for ground projection.
The patent outlines that the system could switch between a standard illumination function and a status display. The projected information might be shown in colour, or even made to flash, to communicate different states or warnings. While the main focus is battery charge, the technology could be adapted to display other useful data for the driver.
Potential benefits for EV owners
Displaying the battery charge externally could help drivers plan journeys without needing to unlock or start the vehicle. This addresses a common inconvenience with current electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, where charge status is not visible until the ignition is switched on.
The system could also improve usability in shared or fleet vehicles, where multiple users need to check readiness at a glance. Ford has not announced when or if the technology will appear on production models.
