Charging System: Overview
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The generator is driven by the accessory drive belt. When the engine is started, the generator begins to generate AC, which is internally converted to DC. The DC is controlled by the voltage regulator and supplied to the battery. The PCM controls the voltage regulation setpoint, communicating with the generator internal voltage regulator over a dedicated LIN communication circuit.
This vehicle is equipped with an Electrical Energy Management system which monitors the battery state of charge and manages battery charging.