What does Ford Motor Company have in common with Google, Apple, and Amazon? Ford shares a spot with them on Fast Company’s Top 10 list of “Most Innovative” companies in Mobile technology, and becomes the first automaker to ever be recognized in the category.
Fast Company ranked Ford fifth in the mobile technology category for the introduction and evolution of SYNC, the industry-leading connectivity system co-developed with Microsoft, as well as the recent reveal of MyFord Touch, an innovative user interface that promises to redefine the in-car experience.
“The automaker has taken a great leap forward,” says Fast Company.
Ford developed SYNC in response to the explosive growth potential of the mobile device and embarked on a strategy to build a software-based connectivity platform that could leverage the increasing power of the phone and improving data networks. MyFord Touch expands on the system’s device connectivity features by delivering a graphical, touch, and voice-controlled user interface that maximizes SYNC’s capability and provides an intuitive and safer way for drivers to interact with the car.
In addition to introducing MyFord Touch at the recent 2010 International CES, Ford became the first automaker to announce hands-free command and control of smart phone apps. Pandora, Stitcher, and OpenBeak are the first to implement the SYNC Application Programming Interface (API), enabling drivers to voice control the apps through SYNC’s Bluetooth connection.
“This honor represents Ford’s commitment to innovation and development of technology that enhances the driving experience and adds real value to the consumer. We’re very proud of this recognition from Fast Company, and it is truly an accomplishment to be named amongst some of the leading technology innovators and mobile application developers.”
– Mark Fields, Ford President of The Americas
“Collaboration and strategic investment in open innovation have been keys to our success. Our relationship with Microsoft was just the beginning, as we’ve forged strong relationships throughout the mobile industry and look forward to even more.”
This is the moment you’ve been waiting for… cars and consumer electronics have never been as beautifully aligned as they are now.
MyFord Touch driver connect technology, launching on the 2011 Ford Edge, is designed to be powerful yet intuitive for drivers, blending strengths of the most proven interfaces in consumer electronics – including MP3 players and mobile phones – with a new generation of Ford’s award-winning SYNC system.
MyFord redesigns the in-car interface, mirroring how consumers interact with most devices in their lives using touch-sensitive buttons, touch screens, thumb-wheel controls and voice recognition.
In that respect, MyFord is instantly familiar. Using reconfigurable displays and simplified voice commands, though, MyFord also can present multiple layers of information, just as the driver wants it.
MyFord Touch layout
MyFord Touch retains the traditional car interior layout that has existed for decades – instrument cluster in front of the driver, center stack dividing the dashboard – and adds even more voice control plus full-color LCD screens for much of the visual information presentation. The information presented is customizable by the driver using a combination of voice controls, touch-screen technology and five-way cell phone-style buttons mounted on the steering wheel.
MyFord Touch displays information using two 4.2-inch full-color LCD screens flanking an analog speedometer and an 8-inch touch-screen LCD at the top of the center stack. A five-way switch on each side of the steering wheel crossbar – similar to the one found on most mobile phones and MP3 players – controls the information displayed on the corresponding instrument panel screens.
Regardless of what menus customers are viewing, a single touch on the appropriate corner will always bring up the desired functionality, and in most cases, a voice command also can be used to adjust the controls.
With the four-corner layout, functions are where they’re expected to be, and they’re always visible on the screen, so it’s clear and easy for users to understand where they are in the system.
Color also is used to give drivers intuitive visual cues between the central 8-inch MyFord Touch display and the instrument panel-mounted 4.2-inch display. Phone and communications functions always are presented with an orange background, navigation with a green background, climate control with a blue background and audio/entertainment functions with a red background.
SYNC – behind the scenes
Behind the displays of MyFord Touch driver connect technology, the next generation of Ford’s award-winning SYNC system runs the show, built using the Microsoft Windows Embedded Auto software platform.
SYNC has evolved from a stand-alone module providing voice-activated control for mobile devices to a fully integrated platform for Ford vehicles with MyFord – a technology that will become the global interior architecture for all future Ford products.
Flexible and upgradable
Built using the latest technology from the Windows Embedded Business at Microsoft, the second generation of SYNC has been designed from the outset to be expandable, allowing it to grow and add new features without requiring new hardware. By employing a Media Hub for interfacing with external devices and media, Ford has helped ensure compatibility with future innovations.
Quotes
“MyFord Touch, combined with new SYNC functionality, creates an experience that will cause people to fall in love with their vehicles again. It’s not just a technology; it’s an experience – one we hope will have people across the globe looking forward to spending time behind the wheel of their vehicle.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development
“MyFord really is about managing information. Driving is the priority when you’re behind the wheel, so we’ve made it possible to simplify the content management so customers can drive with minimal distraction. In the end, what MyFord displays is really up to the driver.”
– Jason Johnson, Ford User Interface Design Engineer
“The steering wheel has all the necessary functions available in a very compact area, right where your hand falls as you grab the wheel. The five-way buttons will feel familiar to anyone who has used a mobile phone or MP3 player. Drivers aren’t forced to use a quirky or unfamiliar interface like a joystick or rotary knob.”
– Jason Johnson, Ford User Interface Design Engineer
“With more than 1 million SYNC-equipped cars on the road already, it’s exciting to see Ford continue to push the envelope and explore new applications for Microsoft’s Windows Embedded automotive software. The car is returning to the place where consumers go to see high-tech innovation.”
– Kevin Dallas, General Manager for Microsoft’s Windows Embedded Business Division
“The Media Hub is really the key to SYNC’s new upgradability. Take navigation: In the past, map data were stored on a hard drive and updates took hours to load from DVD. With SYNC and MyFord Touch, if you need a map update, you take the old SD card out of the Media Hub and pop in a new one. It’ll be the first time an automaker will offer something that competes with the cost and ease of personal navigation devices.”
– Jason Johnson, Ford User Interface Design Engineer
Look around. Unless you’re living in a cave you’ve probably noticed how more and more consumer products offer both high style and high technology. More than ever, great design truly is within reach.
Consider the Ford Edge. When customers made it the No. 1-selling vehicle in the midsize crossover segment in its first full year on the market it was, in part, because of the Edge’s great style and technology. Launching this summer, the 2011 Ford Edge stands to redefine the segment with a wide-ranging scope of improvements.
Bold, flowing design makes Edge the can’t-miss crossover
The bolder, more seamlessly flowing exterior design freshening is mirrored by a complementary interior, characterized by increased craftsmanship, improved materials and overall better execution. Improved fit-and-finish, softer touchpoints, and flexibility in terms of stowage in the cabin and throughout mark the 2011 Ford Edge.
Increased presence is announced through a bolder grille and a chin spoiler that appears more crafted. The A-pillar flows into the hood, which adds subtle undulations to create a heightened sculptural quality. The wrapping lines emphasize both the front end and the new wheel lineup.
MyFord Touch ushers in new era of interaction
The industry-first MyFord Touch driver connect technology provides a smarter, safer, simpler way to connect drivers with in-car technologies and their digital lives. It replaces traditional vehicle buttons, knobs and gauges with clear, crisp LCD screens and five-way controls like those found on cell phones and MP3 players.
Standard on the 2011 Edge Limited and 2011 Edge Sport, the MyFord Touch system displays information using two 4.2-inch full-color LCD screens flanking an analog speedometer and an
8-inch touch-screen LCD at the top of the center stack. A five-way switch on each side of the steering wheel crossbar controls the information displayed on the corresponding instrument panel screens. The screens can be personalized to display information relevant to each individual driver using a simple button click, voice command or touch-screen tap.
The steering wheel has all the necessary functions available in a very compact area, right where the driver’s hand falls as he or she grabs the wheel. The five-way buttons feel familiar to anyone who has used a mobile phone or MP3 player.
Like the song? You can tag it
Also new on the 2011 Ford Edge is the world’s first use of iTunes® Tagging in an available factory-installed HD Radio™ receiver. iTunes Tagging provides customers with the ability to “capture” a song they hear on the HD Radio receiver for later purchase from iTunes. With a simple push of a “TAG” button on the MyFord touch-screen display, the song information will be stored in the radio’s memory.
Once a song is tagged and customers dock their iPod to the SYNC system, the tagged song information will transfer to that iPod. Up to 100 tags on SYNC can be stored until the iPod is connected. When the iPod is then synced to iTunes, a playlist of tagged songs will appear. Customers then can preview, and if they desire, purchase and download tagged songs from the iTunes Store.
One significant benefit of HD Radio technology is that the sound quality of the broadcast is dramatically better because of the digital transmission – FM sounds like a CD and AM sounds like today’s FM broadcasts. Unlike analog broadcasts, digital broadcasts aren’t susceptible to interference, fadeout and other issues.
Brimming with standard and class-exclusive technologies
There are 12 class-exclusive standard and available features and technologies for the 2011 Ford Edge, including MyFord Touch, SYNC; Easy Fuel® (standard); SecuriCode keyless entry keypad; Blind Spot Mirrors (standard); MyKey™ (standard); AdvanceTrac® with RSC (Roll Stability Control™, standard); Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support; Cross Traffic Alert; and 22-inch wheels and paddle activation on the 2011 Edge Sport.
Quotes
“Customers told us how much they like Edge’s design and dynamic driving quality. We listened and made sure the new 2011 Edge delivers that and more – including fuel economy leadership, unexpected levels of quietness, a strong new design with quality materials, and MyFord Touch driver connect technology that will change how people experience their vehicles.”
– Mark Fields, Ford’s President of The Americas
“The new Edge demonstrates how a refresh at Ford has become more than just a few design and interior tweaks. We have taken every element of the Edge and completely reworked it, including three new powertrains, two new transmissions, a bold new exterior design and a completely new interior. If you add in our industry-exclusive MyFord Touch system, you have a vehicle that will continue to stand out above all the competition on the road.”
– Elaine Bannon, Ford Edge Chief Engineer
“To me, craftsmanship isn’t just fit-and-finish. It’s also the layout and the ergonomic experience. It’s where we put the material – the stitching, the cutlines – and all the attention to detail to give the customer a great experience.”
– Elaine Bannon, Ford Edge Chief Engineer
“You can jump in the 2011 Ford Edge and bring your technology – your lifestyle – with you and have everything at your fingertips. The 2011 Ford Edge gives you all the capability and flexibility you want along with great style.”
– Elaine Bannon, Ford Edge Chief Engineer
Game on! The 2010 Ford Taurus takes a giant leap into cyberspace today, starring in a new online interactive game that takes product placement in casual gaming to the next level by fully integrating the vehicle and its technology and features into the gaming experience.
The game, “White Collar: Chasing the Shadow,” is an extension of the critically acclaimed USA NETWORK drama “White Collar,” which follows a con artist and FBI agent who team up to catch bad guys. The Taurus is not only featured prominently in the television series but now in a new online game that allows players – acting as FBI trainees – to drive the Taurus and use its features to catch a notorious villain dubbed “The White Shadow.”
What makes this initiative unique is that the 2010 Taurus isn’t just along for the ride. The new and class-exclusive technologies in the Taurus are used to interpret clues and collect evidence.
For example, players use the Ford SYNC technology to access text messages that contain important crime-solving tips.
Online game product placement: Kicking it up a notch
Product placement in online games is not new for Ford, but the depth of the Taurus integration in “White Collar: Chasing the Shadow” is.
Ford is continually looking for ways to extend partnerships – like the one with USA NETWORK – in meaningful ways.
If you would like to experience the Taurus in the new online game, please visit http://chasingtheshadow.usanetwork.com/ and click on the “games” tab at the top of the page.
Quotes
“Features like SYNC, SecuriCode, Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning are used in the online game as they would be by a real-world consumer, and they seamlessly contribute to the game’s plot and puzzles. The game also is episodic in nature, giving players the ability to come back and solve new puzzles weekly and vary the ways in which they interact with the Taurus.”
– Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand Content & Alliances Manager
“This is a more immersive, realistic and storytelling-based experience that is more closely aligned with television and movie product integration,” he said. “It raises the bar by providing realistic environments and compelling game play that showcases the Taurus and its features to consumers.”
– Jonathan Beebe, Taurus Digital Marketing Manager
“What we really liked about creating the online game with USA is that it not only introduces Taurus to millions of consumers through the popularity of online gaming but provides them with a very engaging way to experience the innovative technology and features in the new Taurus.”
– Jeff Eggen, Ford Car Experiential Marketing Manager
The 2011 Lincoln MKX, with industry-first MyLincoln Touch™ driver connect technology, is a high-tech showcase. That is true of the luxury crossover’s powertrain as well.
Its new 3.7-liter Duratec V-6 employs advanced technology and clever control strategies to increase horsepower and torque to best-in-class levels while achieving unsurpassed fuel economy.
2011 Lincoln MKX customers will enjoy a luxury crossover that delivers best-in-class power and torque versus all V-6 competitors with unsurpassed highway fuel economy of 25 mpg – all on regular fuel. Horsepower has been increased to 305 – a 15 percent increase compared with the outgoing product – while torque is up to 280 ft.-lb., marking a 12 percent improvement.
The 3.7-liter V-6 is mated to a six-speed SelectShift Automatic™ transmission, which gives customers the option of a fun-to-shift manual experience.
In SelectShift mode, the transmission doesn’t second-guess the driver, offering total control over gear selection and performance feel. Upshifts, for instance, are not commanded at redline, and downshifts are allowed at the lowest gear possible as defined by the engine speed.
When a lower gear is selected while descending a long downhill grade, the 2011 Lincoln MKX in SelectShift mode will hold that gear until the driver manually upshifts or returns to the fully automatic setting. To ensure safe shifting, the transmission will downshift to the lowest acceptable gear, based on a calculated maximum speed. That means if a vehicle were traveling at highway speeds, the driver could not downshift to first gear in SelectShift mode.
Improvements to engine hardware as well as the powertrain control strategies account for the gains in power and fuel economy. These improvements include:
Quotes
“Fuel economy continues to be at the top of customers’ minds. But customers refuse to compromise on power. With the 2011 Lincoln MKX, they won’t have to. We’re delivering increased power and torque with unsurpassed fuel economy.”
– Greg Johnson, Lincoln Powertrain Manager
“When the system is in manual mode, engine speed matching provides faster and smoother downshifts, and the customer gets the gear they request within the limits of the rev limiter.”
– Greg Johnson, Lincoln Powertrain Manager
“The key to the performance gains and fuel economy with the 2011 Lincoln MKX is that we don’t look at power and fuel economy as being mutually exclusive. Instead, we focus on optimizing every component, every system and every control in the powertrain for greater efficiency overall, which enables increased power, better performance and response and helps to maintain the fuel economy found in smaller-displacement engines.”
– Mazen Hammoud, Lincoln Powertrain Calibrations Manager
They say that times are tough all over, but you won’t feel that way when you get inside the 2011 Lincoln MKX. New, industry-exclusive technologies and engaging design featuring world-class craftsmanship and materials further elevate the midsize luxury crossover.
Leading the wide-ranging innovations is the all-new MyLincoln Touch driver connect technology, which delivers a smarter, safer, simpler way to connect drivers with in-car technologies and their digital lives. MyLincoln comes standard on the 2011 Lincoln MKX, providing drivers a whole new experience behind the wheel.
The dramatic freshening of the 2011 Lincoln MKX extends to all areas of the vehicle: new features and technologies not available anywhere else, new exterior design, new interior design with increased use of genuine materials, new powertrain with unsurpassed fuel economy, improved driving dynamics and new tires and wheels all combine to deliver an unparalleled luxury experience.
Introducing… MyLincoln
The industry-first MyLincoln Touch experience, powered by Lincoln SYNC®, replaces traditional vehicle buttons, knobs and gauges with clear, crisp LCD screens and five-way buttons like those found on cell phones and MP3 players. The screens can be personalized to display information relevant to each individual driver using a simple button click, voice command or touch screen tap.
The electronic finish panel on the 2011 Lincoln MKX demonstrates all the advantages of this touch-sensitive technology in a beautiful, engaging package. Activated features display amber light. When turned off, signature Lincoln White lighting is displayed.
In addition to the usual audio and climate control features, the touch-sensitive technology also operates the volume and fan controls, which is exclusive to Lincoln.
Customers can swipe their fingers along the slider to adjust the volume. The slider features 10 distinct touchpoints; three full swipes bring the system to maximum volume. Customers also can touch anywhere along the slider to get a corresponding increase or decrease in volume.
The fan control is operated in a similar fashion. On both the volume control and the fan control, the distinctive Lincoln White lighting acts as a chaser.
Brimming with technologies and craftsmanship
Standard MyLincoln Touch and remote start lead the list of features or technologies on the 2011 Lincoln MKX, including: MyLincoln Touch, Lincoln SYNC, Easy Fuel, SecuriCode™ keyless entry, Blind Spot Mirrors, MyKey, Cross Traffic Alert and AdvanceTrac® with RSC (Roll Stability Control™).
The interior of the 2011 Lincoln MKX reflects an even greater emphasis on what defines Lincoln DNA: luxury, craftsmanship, genuine materials and sharper execution.
Gentle details that bring out Lincoln standards of quality and excellence include brightwork on the vents, genuine stitching on the doors and softer armrests with upgraded materials. The cupholders, with available ambient lighting, are found beneath the independent sliding leather-covered console lids, which feature decorative stitching. A power tilt/telescoping steering column and a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel are available.
All-new leather-trimmed seats, comfort sections and standard tuxedo stripe embrace the new Lincoln DNA sew style. More genuine aluminum appliqués are standard, with aluminum accents on the door added to the spears on the instrument panel.
The two available wood accents – Olive Ash and Walnut Swirl – on the steering wheel, dashboard and doors add character and form; each selection has a livelier, natural appearance, adding even more character to the interior. Whether customers select aluminum or wood, the increased use of genuine materials in the 2011 Lincoln MKX ensures that each interior will be distinctive.
Quotes
“With its combination of style, performance and uncompromising luxury, the Lincoln MKX has brought new customers into the Lincoln showroom in a way that very few products have before. Lincoln customers tell us they care most about style and technology, and the new Lincoln MKX meets these needs perfectly. The new MyLincoln Touch technology will change the way customers interact with their vehicles while its new design language gives the vehicle a distinctive and stylish silhouette we know customers will love.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Group Vice President, Global Product Development
“The 2011 Lincoln MKX represents no-compromise luxury. Every attribute – technology, ergonomics, material selection, power, fuel economy, driving experience – is a standout. Plus, it’s wrapped in a beautiful package. Everything about the 2011 Lincoln MKX is vibrant and luxurious. Our MyLincoln Touch system will draw people in, helping them discover that the new Lincoln MKX delivers a total driving experience not found anywhere else.”
– Elaine Bannon, Chief Engineer of the 2011 Lincoln MKX
Based upon the new MyFord Touch driver connect technology announced at the 2010 International CES, MyLincoln Touch is designed to be a powerful yet intuitive interior design for drivers, blending strengths of the most proven interfaces in consumer electronics – including MP3 players and mobile phones – with a new generation of Lincoln’s award-winning SYNC® system.
MyLincoln Touch redesigns the in-car interface, mirroring how consumers interact with most devices in their lives: touch-sensitive controls, touch screens, thumb-wheel controls and voice recognition.
In that respect, MyLincoln is instantly familiar. Using reconfigurable displays and simplified voice commands, though, MyLincoln also can present multiple layers of information, just as the driver wants it.
MyLincoln Touch layout
MyLincoln Touch retains the traditional car interior layout that has existed for decades – instrument cluster in front of the driver, center stack dividing the dashboard – and adds even more voice control plus full-color LCD screens for much of the visual information presentation. The information presented is customizable by the driver using a combination of voice controls, touch-screen technology and five-way cell phone-style buttons mounted on the steering wheel.
MyLincoln Touch displays information using two 4.2-inch full-color LCD screens flanking an analog speedometer and an 8-inch touch-screen LCD at the top of the center stack. A five-way switch on each side of the steering wheel crossbar controls the information displayed on the corresponding instrument panel screens.
The left display, which is controlled by the left five-way controller, features information and settings for the vehicle: fuel economy, mechanical status, safety features.
The right display, controlled by the right five-way controller, contains infotainment information: audio settings, climate control, phone communications and navigation menus.
Those same right-hand functions also appear in the vehicle’s center stack, now augmented with capacitive switches and touch-screen technology, which subtly replaces most traditional knobs and switches.
Lincoln center stack applications will take touch-sensitive technology to the next level with fingertip “slider” controls for audio volume and fan speed. Occupants will slide a finger along the touch-sensitive slider bar to adjust settings as an LED chaser gives a visual representation of volume or fan speed.
Touch-screen display
The 8-inch touch-screen center stack display is the key interface on MyLincoln Touch. Designers employed a four-corner solution for its layout, representing the four activities most important to customers: phone, navigation, climate and audio/entertainment functions.
Regardless of what menus customers are viewing, a single touch on the appropriate corner will always bring up the desired functionality, and in most cases, a voice command also can be used to adjust the controls.
With the four-corner layout, functions are where they’re expected to be, and they’re always visible on the screen, so it’s clear and easy for users to understand where they are in the system.
Color is also used to give drivers intuitive visual cues between the central 8-inch MyLincoln Touch display and the instrument-panel-mounted 4.2-inch display. Phone and communications functions always are presented with an orange background, navigation with a green background, climate control with a blue background and audio/entertainment functions with a red background.
SYNC – behind the scenes
Behind the displays of MyLincoln Touch driver connect technology, the next generation of the company’s award-winning SYNC system runs the show, built using the latest Microsoft Auto operating system.
No longer just a “black box” add-on providing voice-activated control for mobile devices, SYNC has become a fully integrated operating system for Lincoln vehicles – a technology that will become the global interior architecture for all future Lincoln products.
Quotes
“MyFord Touch, combined with new SYNC functionality, creates an experience that will cause people to fall in love with their vehicles again. It’s not just a technology; it’s an experience – one we hope will have people across the globe looking forward to spending time behind the wheel of their vehicle.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development
“MyLincoln really is about managing information. Driving is the priority when you’re behind the wheel, so we’ve made it possible to simplify the content management so customers can drive with minimal distraction. In the end, what MyLincoln displays is really up to the driver.”
– Jason Johnson, User Interface Design Engineer
“The steering wheel has all the necessary functions available in a very compact area, right where your hand falls as you grab the wheel. The five-way buttons will feel familiar to anyone who has used a mobile phone or MP3 player. Drivers aren’t forced to use a quirky or unfamiliar interface like a joystick or rotary knob.”
– Jason Johnson, User Interface Design Engineer
The synergies between automotive and digital technologies have never been better integrated than they are in the next-generation Ford Focus. The global C-car debuts with the Ford’s new technology that changes the way people interact with their car’s vehicle information, entertainment features and even Bluetooth-enabled devices.
MyFord retains the traditional automotive interior layout – instrument cluster in front of the driver, center stack dividing the dashboard – and adds LCD screens to provide much of the visual information.
Drivers decide what – and how much – information is presented by using a combination of voice controls and five-way cell phone-style buttons mounted on the steering wheel. It’s easy to use, thanks to its layout and design. Plus, it’s tremendously scalable given all the functions available through the LCD screens and the power of SYNC®, the operating system behind MyFord.
Interacting with MyFord
MyFord divides information in a familiar fashion: left-hand and right-hand. A five-way switch, similar to the one found on most mobile phones and MP3 players, exists on each side of the steering wheel crossbar to control the information.
On basic MyFord trim levels, display duties are handled by two 4.2-inch full-color LCD screens, one in the center of the instrument panel and another atop the center stack. Higher-specification versions use a 4.2-inch LCD in the center of the instrument panel and an 8-inch touch-screen display in the center stack.
The instrument panel display, controlled by the left-side five-way controller, contains information about the vehicle: fuel economy, mechanical status, safety features and other information typically found in the vehicle message center. The center stack display, controlled by the five-way controller on the right side, contains information relating to the vehicle occupants: entertainment system settings, climate control information and communications functions.
On MyFord models, a traditional telephone-style keypad and key command buttons surround the center stack display to provide quick access to commonly used features. Focus models with a touch-screen use a combination of on-screen buttons and the right-hand five-way controller to manage information.
How MyFord driver connect technology accommodates all types of drivers
To ensure the MyFord system is an instant hit with Focus buyers, designers prioritized four key attributes of the interface design:
Attentive: MyFord uses controls, screens and other interfaces with which most users are already comfortable and familiar through popular consumer electronics devices.
Approachable: MyFord is attractive, using rich graphics, vibrant colors, high-definition screens and easy-to-use buttons that are appealing to the eye and the touch.
Clear: Rather than an imposing cluster of buttons, switches and dials, MyFord is clean-looking with controls that fall readily to hand and displays that are exactly where users expect to find them. Most major functions can be controlled through voice commands without the driver’s hands ever leaving the steering wheel.
Connected: For technophiles, MyFord can be configured to display the information they want in the way they want it. For technophobes, radio, heating and air-conditioning controls are still accessible via familiar stack-mounted controls, so there’s no need to learn a host of new commands to operate the vehicle.
Why design a new interface?
In recent years, the variety of in-car communications, navigation, audio and entertainment technologies that consumers demand has outgrown the traditional “button and knob” interface. Consumers have been suffering “button fatigue,” even as they’re demanding more in-car connectivity, more options and more information, which is likely to grow still further.
For example, consumers still were required to interrupt much of their communications, information flow and music when entering the vehicle. Once inside, the focus often was on song selection, making a phone call or setting up the navigation system rather than on driving.
The original SYNC system helped provide a seamless flow of information and entertainment to drivers. It now has even more capability available, and MyFord will help manage the immense functionality available to drivers. MyFord is the next major Ford technology geared toward helping drivers complete their tasks while keeping the focus on safe, attentive driving.
Quotes
“This isn’t a new dashboard or a new instrument cluster or an interior redesign. MyFord rethinks how information is presented to drivers and how drivers are able to personalize the way they relate to the information or entertainment the car makes available to them. It’s a groundbreaking, intuitive interface that puts tremendous power at the hands of Focus owners.” – Derrick Kuzak, Group Vice President, Global Product Development
“With MyFord, we’re not asking drivers to relearn how to turn up the heat or change the radio volume. Those basic controls are exactly where you expect them. For those inclined to dive deeper and make their in-vehicle experience truly their own, though, there’s much more information and more control available with a few clicks of a steering wheel button.” – John Schneider, Chief Engineer, Ford Connected Services Solutions Organization
“The steering wheel has all the necessary functions available in a very compact area, right where your hand falls as you grab the wheel. And the five-way buttons will feel familiar to anyone who has used a mobile phone or MP3 player. Drivers aren’t forced to use an unfamiliar interface like a joystick or rotary knob.” – Gary Braddock, Ford Group Chief Designer
“Everything has been designed around usability. Our goal was to provide the means – multiple means, in many cases – for drivers to accomplish what they want to do. More importantly, we had to keep the focus on driving and not confuse drivers with a huge collection of buttons. MyFord was designed to work with the driver, not force the driver to work with it.”
– Tom Cullen, Project Manager for MyFord
“When we started work on MyFord, we saw this huge groundswell of new functionality and capability hitting consumers and expanding right before our eyes. We knew that unless we devised an intuitive interface for these capabilities, they would detract – and possibly distract – from the driving experience.”
– Gary Braddock, Ford Group Chief Designer
Ever wonder how to better integrate your technological needs into your driving experience? Wonder no more.
Ford introduced a smarter, safer, simpler system to connect drivers with in-car technologies and their digital lives today at the 2010 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES).
Building on its leadership with the award-winning SYNC® device connectivity system, Ford has combined a variety of technologies into one powerful, intuitive connected driver experience called MyFord, which will begin rolling out on vehicles this year.
This new in-vehicle connectivity experience replaces many of the traditional vehicle buttons, knobs and gauges. With more voice commands, clear, crisp LCD screens that can be customized and five-way buttons like those on cell phones and MP3 players, drivers can choose which information is front and center through a button click, voice command or touch-screen tap.
Driven by trends
Ford decided to undertake a sweeping and ambitious redesign of the automotive interface after studying consumer electronics trends and the many new ways in which drivers were using technology inside their Ford vehicles.
Recent years have seen a massive expansion in the variety of in-car communications, navigation and infotainment technologies consumers regularly use. The expectations of average drivers have outgrown the traditional “button/knob/gauge” interface used in cars for the past 100 years, as most consumer and household electronics have moved to colorful digital displays and multi-function touch-sensitive buttons.
Consumers are insisting on simpler interfaces even as they’re demanding more in-car connectivity, more options and more information – a dilemma known as “simplexity.” Plus, the pace of advancement is expected to continue unabated, posing a new opportunity for drivers and engineers alike.
For example, prior to SYNC, drivers often were required to either leave behind their communications, digital information and favorite music while on the road or split their attention between driving and selecting songs, making phone calls or using the navigation system.
Influenced – and powered – by SYNC
When launched, Ford SYNC, developed with Microsoft, helped provide a seamless transition – and seamless flow of information and entertainment – from the moment drivers entered their vehicles to the moment they got out. As Ford began to develop additional SYNC capabilities and add other signature content, the company realized it was redefining the interior environment and ownership experience.
Accommodating all types of drivers, all types of vehicles
In the initial planning stages of redesigning the interior experience, Ford collaborated with IDEO, a world leader in helping consumers connect with technology. As a result, the company identified four key attributes of successful interfaces:
Be attentive: Use controls, screens and other interfaces with which most users already are comfortable and familiar.
Be approachable: Create an attractive environment with rich graphics, vibrant colors and buttons/screens that are appealing to the eye and the touch, and consistent with what consumers expect from certain functions.
Be clear: Rather than an imposing cluster of buttons, switches and dials, create a clean-looking interface, with controls that fall readily to hand and displays that are exactly where users expect to find them. Provide maximum control without the driver’s hands ever leaving the steering wheel.
Be connected: For technophiles? Let drivers display all the information they want in the way they want it. For technophobes? Make sure basic controls, like radio and HVAC settings, still are accessible via familiar stack-mounted controls, so users don’t have to learn a host of new commands to operate the vehicle.
A global future for MyFord driver connect technology
As a signature offering, and one with the potential to help reduce driver distraction, Ford knew widely offering MyFord driver connect technology was a priority from the start.
MyFord also will be expanded across world markets. As new and refreshed models continue to arrive, nearly all Ford passenger vehicles will be outfitted with MyFord driver connect technology. There will be minor variations across car lines, but the interface will be instantly recognizable in Ford vehicles around the globe.
MyFord will arrive later this year on the redesigned 2011 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX crossovers, before appearing on the all-new 2012 Ford Focus for global markets. By 2015, approximately 80 percent of Ford’s North American models are expected to have MyFord driver connect technology, with similar percentages predicted for the world market.
Quotes
“MyFord delivers a premium interior experience that will help consumers fall in love with their vehicles again. It integrates all our signature features so customers will know exactly what they’re going to get in any Ford vehicle they may find themselves driving, no matter where they are in the world.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development
“As we began developing MyFord’s capability, we saw this groundswell of new technology, new functionality and incredible capability opening up to consumers. It was readily apparent that unless we devised an intuitive interface to help drivers manage these capabilities, they could detract – and possibly distract – from the driving experience.”
– Mark Fields, Ford’s President of The Americas
“With MyFord driver connect technology, we realized we weren’t necessarily competing with other automakers, but we were really redefining how customers interacted with their cars. We had to look very closely at the evolution of hand-held devices in terms of user interface, connectivity, productivity and entertainment applications. Our goal is to set the benchmark for the automotive user interface, just as we’ve done for device connectivity with SYNC.”
– Jim Buczkowski, Ford Director of Electronics and Electrical Systems Engineering
“The driving experience is not just about getting from A to B. It’s about the approach to the car, how it responds to you when you get in, and how it responds to you while you drive. It’s the anticipation, the welcome and the continuing conversation. Keeping these principles in mind helped us ensure we made decisions for the right reasons.”
– J Mays, Ford Group Vice President of Design
“Democratization of technology is a key aspect of our product plan. With MyFord, we didn’t want to create an upscale electronics package and just put it on our highest-end vehicles. This technology will be available across our full range of vehicles: From our affordable small cars to the ultimate Lincoln, we’re going to make a premium, appealing and intuitive experience available to everyone.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development
“We’ve developed an environment that will make every Ford vehicle feel like a Ford. Across the country, across the globe, all of our products will have the same type of feel, making them instantly comfortable to the drivers who know and love them, and MyFord will become a key part of the joy of owning and driving a Ford product.”
– Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development
iTunes Tagging and crystal-clear radio sound through HD Radio technology are the latest features on Ford’s growing list of factory-installed customer conveniences and technologies that will be newly available in 2010.
HD Radio receivers pull in digital radio signals and play them with dramatically improved sound. FM stations, for example, have near-CD quality, making it convenient for customers to select songs they want to download and purchase.
In 2010, Ford vehicles will offer familiar terrestrial radio, HD Radio technology, SIRIUS® Satellite Radio as well as Internet radio through Ford SYNC® from a Bluetooth®-streaming audio-capable smartphone. Like the song? You can tag it
The world’s first implementation of iTunes Tagging in a factory-installed HD Radioreceiver will launch in 2010 on select Ford vehicles. Through the SYNC system, iTunes Tagging will provide Ford customers with the ability to capture a song they hear on the HD Radio receiver for later purchase. With a simple push of the “TAG” button on the radio display, the song information will be stored in the radio’s memory.
Up to 100 tags can be stored on SYNC until the iPod is connected to receive the download of metadata. When the iPod is then synced to iTunes, a playlist of “tagged” songs will appear. Customers then can preview and, if desired, purchase and download tagged songs from the iTunes Store.
All HD Radio-enabled receivers in Ford vehicles also will provide Program Service Data – information that appears on the radio screen and includes song title, artist name and more.
Quotes
“iTunes Tagging and HD Radio technology are strong new additions to the growing collection of Ford convenience features and technology we’re offering customers to make driving even more enjoyable. This is another example of Ford’s commitment to bring the widest variety of factory-installed customer-focused technology, features and conveniences to millions of people.”
– Mark Fields, President of The Americas, Ford Motor Company
“Ford continues to lead the market in bringing advanced capabilities to popular vehicles. We are very pleased that HD Radio technology is an integral part of Ford’s broad offering of new features.”
– Jeff Jury, COO of iBiquity Digital Corporation, the developer of HD Radio technology.
Remember when having a rear-seat DVD entertainment system in your car made your family the coolest on the block? That’s so five minutes ago. These days, on-board infotainment options aren’t limited to a movie and its bonus features – it’s all about connectivity to the outside world.
That’s why Ford Motor Company will turn vehicles into rolling WiFi hot spots when it introduces the second generation of its popular SYNC® in-car connectivity system next year.
Getting connected
Inserting an owner’s compatible USB mobile broadband modem – sometimes called an “air card” – into SYNC’s USB port will produce a secure wireless connection that will be broadcast throughout the vehicle, allowing passengers with WiFi-enabled mobile devices to access the Internet anywhere the broadband modem receives connectivity.
Studies by the Consumer Electronics Association show there are up to 77 million tech- enthusiast adult drivers, more than half of whom express the desire for a connected communications and information system in their vehicles. Even among the general population, more than one third of Americans would be interested in the ability to check email and access Web sites in their vehicles.
Upgradeable and secure
The USB port provided by SYNC lets owners leverage a variety of devices, including the mobile broadband modem. And through simple software updates, SYNC can be adapted to connect with the latest devices.
The SYNC WiFi capability is a simple solution for bringing internet into the vehicle, versus competitive systems on the market. Being factory-installed, the hardware is seamlessly integrated into the vehicle, whereas competitor’s systems are dealer-installed and require a bulky bolt-in receiver and transmitter that take up cabin space. Also, competitive systems cost approximately $500 for equipment and installation, not to mention the monthly subscription fee.
Using the SYNC WiFi system, a signal will be broadcast throughout the vehicle. Default security is set to WiFi Protected Access 2 (WPA2), requiring users to enter a randomly chosen password to connect to the Internet. When SYNC sees a new WiFi device for the first time, the driver must specifically allow that device to connect, preventing unauthorized users from “piggybacking” on the SYNC-provided signal.
Quotes
“While you’re driving to grandma’s house your spouse can be finishing the holiday shopping and the kids can be chatting with friends and updating their Facebook profiles. And you’re not paying for yet another mobile subscription or piece of hardware because Ford will let you use technology you already have.”
– Mark Fields, Ford President of the Americas
“The speed at which technology is evolving, particularly on the wireless front, make obsolescence a real problem. We’ve solved that problem by making SYNC work with just about any technology you plug into it. By leveraging a user’s existing hardware, which can be upgraded independent of SYNC, we’ve helped ensure ‘forward compatibility’ with whatever connectivity technology comes next.”
– Doug VanDagens, Director of Ford’s Connected Services Solutions Organization
“Using SYNC with existing mobile devices helps Ford provide the most value, the most flexibility and the most convenience for owners. Constant connectivity is becoming a routine part of our customers’ lives, and we’re making existing technology more accessible without adding costs: That’s the kind of value Ford drivers have learned to expect.”
– Mark Fields, Ford President of the Americas
When Ford Motor Company began researching ways to adapt Smartphone mobile apps for in-car use through voice control of its popular SYNC® communications system, the company first turned to the nearby University of Michigan-Dearborn campus to spur innovative ideas around “what’s next” for the connected car experience.
There, Ford enlisted the help of six computer science students, working with their professors to devise an extracurricular project that would net the young programmers invaluable real-world experience. It would also give Ford an education on the open software community, which was what the company wanted in order to take SYNC to the next level.
Back to school
To gain outside perspective on the app marketplace, the students headed for the same place millions of SYNC users visit every day: the iPhone App Store. With more than 100,000 applications created in just two years, explosive growth fueled by a spirit of “open innovation” has made the App Store an unprecedented success.
The initial task: winnowing the roughly 100,000 active App Store apps down to those that would be relevant for in-car use. The young developers would then be asked to modify the software to work with SYNC, using the vehicle buttons, displays and voice prompts to control the mobile app. And they had three months during which to work.
Ford was already working on an internal proof-of-concept application programming interface called “SYNCLink,” allowing connectivity between Smartphone mobile applications and the vehicle interface. This API permitted access to the automotive interface – buttons, voice prompts and vehicle displays – that would be needed to make the software work.
To gain access to the SYNC API in development, the students became the first ever to sign Ford’s new SYNC Developers’ License, in effect making them the only six mobile app developers in the world licensed to use the SYNC API for in-vehicle applications. Not only were the agreements drafted in a remarkably short time, but they marked an unprecedented release of proprietary technology by an automaker into the open source community.
Quotes
“When we started planning for mobile app functionality on SYNC, we knew we had to think and act with the ‘start-up’ mentality. The explosive growth in apps comes from community-created development, software geeks chatting about code on social media sites, open collaboration. That’s the genesis of app innovation, and that’s the spirit we wanted to capture for SYNC.”
– K. Venkatesh Prasad, Technical Leader for Infotronics, Ford Research and Advanced Engineering
Ask typical techies what they’d expect to see at International CES (Consumer Electronics Show) and their top-of-mind response might be the latest and greatest in mobile electronics. If that’s the case, they’re thinking too small, and not just in terms of physical dimensions. That’s because “mobile electronics” has taken on a whole new meaning that makes Game Boys and iPhones look like kids’ stuff.
Ford’s wide-ranging, customer-driven in-vehicle technology and features continue to gain recognition and awards from industry experts. Both Ford Work Solutions and SYNC – two Ford-exclusive technologies – will be honored with International CES (Consumer Electronics Show) 2010 Innovations Design and Engineering Awards.
Ford Work Solutions’ in-dash computer won 2010 Best of Innovations in the category of In-Vehicle Accessories. SYNC’s latest application, Traffic, Directions & Information, was honored in the category of In-Vehicle Navigation/Telematics/ITS (Intelligent Transportation System).
Here Come the Judges
Products entered in this prestigious program are judged by a preeminent panel of independent industrial designers, engineers and members of the media to honor outstanding design and
engineering in cutting-edge consumer electronics products across 36 categories.
The Innovations entries are judged based on the following criteria:
Engineering qualities, based on technical specs and materials used
Aesthetic and design qualities, using photos provided
The product’s intended use/function and user value
Unique/novel features that consumers would find attractive
How the design and innovation of the product compares to other products in the marketplace
Enabling greater productivity for fleets, commercial customers
Ford Work Solutions is a collection of technologies created to provide Ford commercial truck and van customers with connectivity, flexibility and security to better manage their businesses. Available on Ford F-150, F-Series Super Duty, E-Series vans and the new Transit Connect, Ford Work Solutions delivers four innovative features:
An in-dash computer developed with Magneti Marelli and powered by Microsoft Auto that provides full high-speed Internet access via the Sprint Mobile Broadband Network, Bluetooth-enabled hands-free calling and navigation by Garmin. The first broadband-capable in-dash computer in production, the system allows customers to print invoices, check inventories and access documents stored on their home or office computer networks – right on the job site. The office is now mobile.
Tool Link™, a Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) asset tracking system developed in association with DeWALT™, the industry leader in professional power tools, and ThingMagic, the industry expert on embedded RFID technology. This technology enables customers to maintain a detailed real-time inventory of the tools or equipment stored in the pickup box.
Crew Chief™, a fleet tracking, telematics and diagnostics system, offered with market-leading telematics specialist Microlise, provides dynamic location and performance data fleet owners need to more efficiently manage their vehicles, quickly dispatch workers to job sites, monitor driver performance for safety and economy, and keep detailed vehicle maintenance records.
Cable Lock security system developed in association with Master Lock®, the industry-leading lock manufacturer, discourages theft of expensive tools too large to fit in the cab.
Keeping you connected
Ford SYNC’s latest application – Traffic, Directions & Information – leverages industry-leading voice-recognition software, integrated GPS technology and a customer’s Bluetooth-capable mobile phone. It provides simple hands-free access to personalized traffic reports, precise turn-by-turn driving directions and up-to-date information including business listings, news, sports and weather.
These new capabilities are in addition to SYNC’s established hallmark suite of services, from hands-free, voice-activated cell phone and digital media player integration to the more recent security and convenience additions of 911 Assist™ and Vehicle Health Report.
Introduced in 2007, more than 80 percent of the vehicles Ford sells in North America are equipped with SYNC, and more than 1 million SYNC-equipped vehicles are on the road today.
2010 International CES
Ford Work Solutions and SYNC with Traffic, Directions & Information will be on display at the 2010 International CES, which runs Jan. 7-10, 2010 in Las Vegas. The Innovations Design and Engineering Showcase will feature honorees by product category in the Grand Lobby of the Las Vegas Convention Center and they will also be featured at CES Unveiled: The Official Press Event of the International CES on Jan. 5.
Quotes
“Our customers want the latest in connectivity and technology – making their drive experience more enjoyable and convenient. We’re honored that CES has recognized our efforts in providing these customer-driven features.”
– Mark Fields, President, The Americas, Ford Motor Company
“Ford Work Solutions is just another example of how we listen to our truck customers and deliver features and technology to help them do their jobs easier and more efficiently. We’ve been the leader in the segment for 32 years by delivering real-world solutions to our customers. For example, fleets using Crew Chief have experienced increases in fuel economy in excess of 20 percent.”
– Bill Frykman, Business Development Manager for Ford Work Solutions
As part of their research into the cause and effects of distracted driving, Ford Motor Company researchers are using high-tech goggles that measure the amount of time drivers take their eyes off the road to help validate in-vehicle technologies such as GPS navigation systems.
The special “occlusion” goggles are used in testing at Ford’s Human Machine Interface Verification Laboratory – or “Distraction Lab.” Ford engineers and technologists use the data to accelerate the safer design of telematics systems that keep drivers connected and informed.
How it works
In occlusion studies, the test subject wears goggles equipped with small liquid crystal display (LCD) screens that rapidly blink open and closed in a regulated sequence while the subject views graphics and text information on a new device such as a navigation screen. Open goggles represent eyes-off-road time, or when the driver is looking away at a device. Closed goggles represent eyes-on-road time.
If 85 percent or more of test subjects are able to complete a task on screen in the time allowed – such as reading and selecting an address on a navigation screen – the task is considered compliant with industry guidelines. However, if the test subject cannot complete the task in time, the function is designed to be locked-out when the vehicle is in motion, and can only be operated when the vehicle is stopped.
Thanks in part to occlusion testing, the information displayed on Ford’s latest-generation navigation system is purposely limited to comply with industry guidelines and help reduce the risk of driver distraction.
The hands-free, voice-operated advantage
Occlusion testing also was instrumental in determining the appropriate amount of information provided to drivers who use the latest SYNC application – Traffic, Directions & Information (TDI).
The feature leverages SYNC’s industry-leading voice-recognition software, integrated GPS and Bluetooth-capable phones to provide simple hands-free access to personalized traffic reports, precise driving directions and up-to-date information including business listings, news, sports and weather. This information is provided through the car’s audio entertainment speakers, allowing the driver to keep hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
A recent study showed that SYNC, Ford’s fully integrated voice-operated in-car communications and entertainment system, significantly reduced the level of distraction when test participants selected a phone number or chose a song on their MP3 player compared with the same operations using hand-held cell phones and music players. For example, the research conducted by Ford shows study participants spent an average of 25 seconds with their eyes off the road to select a song with a hand-held MP3 player compared with two seconds for those choosing a song using SYNC. Read more about this and other related research here.
Quotes
“Occlusion testing is faster and a lot more efficient than other methods for determining eyes-off-road time and the potential for visual distraction. In the past, we used occlusion testing primarily to verify other research, but over the past couple of years we’ve been able to develop test models with the technology that allows us to rapidly complete research faster than ever before.”
– John Shutko, Ford Technical Specialist in Human Factors Engineering and Ergonomics
“Studies show voice-operated systems like SYNC offer significant safety benefits over hand-held manual devices. If people are going to use nomadic devices – and there’s no reason to believe that they will stop – Ford wants to offer our customers a safer way to use them, through SYNC.”
– Dr. Louis Tijerina, Ford Senior Technical Specialist
Techno troglodytes rejoice! Tech assistance is at hand!
Ford Motor Company has teamed up with the industry’s largest electronics retailer, Best Buy, to help bring consumers closer to the industry-leading SYNC® in-car communications system. Through Best Buy Mobile, the retailer will offer thousands of specially trained associates to assist with Ford SYNC education, training and phone compatibility tests to ensure consumers are maximizing the SYNC experience.
Get expert assistance
Beginning in October, Best Buy stores in Texas will conduct a pilot program involving more than 30 Best Buy locations where consumers will be able to experience live SYNC demos and Ford, Lincoln and Mercury customer clinics. The SYNC demos will show participants how their mobile phones can interact with the voice-activated system, while customer clinics will help new Ford customers improve their understanding of SYNC capabilities using their actual phones and vehicles. Local dealers will participate to offer additional expert assistance on SYNC.
Local dealers will remain the primary touch point for consumers interested in purchasing SYNC; however, Best Buy Mobile experts will serve as another resource for consumers looking to learn more about the compatibility of their mobile devices. Under the agreement, Best Buy Mobile associates will provide Ford owners with phone pairing information, helping them get comfortable with SYNC and enabling them to either connect their existing handset or choose a compatible mobile phone.
Best Buy also will include Ford SYNC mobile phone compatibility results in its monthly Best Buy Mobile Buyer’s Guide to identify which of the latest mobile devices work seamlessly with Ford SYNC. The ratings are based on phone compatibility tests conducted by Best Buy’s tech services unit Geek Squad, and are updated frequently. The SYNC ratings can also be found at www.syncmyride.com.
National SYNC ad campaign rolls out
Earlier this month, Ford launched its new advertising campaign for SYNC, called “SYNC: Say the Word,” to further increase awareness around its current voice-activated applications. The SYNC ads will target young, tech-savvy drivers and appear in various print and online mediums.
“SYNC: Say the Word” will feature robotic “voice agents” that act as personal assistants as voice commands are activated. There will be a total of nine robots that will each showcase the various applications of SYNC including turn-by-turn navigation, 911 Assist, music search, audible text message reading, hands-free calling, business search, Vehicle Health Report, real-time traffic and My Favorites – news, sports, weather.
To complement print advertisements, Ford will also release 30-second video spots with select robotic voice agents to build awareness of how each SYNC application can be activated by simple voice command. The company will also make available a total of 11 instructional videos that highlight each SYNC feature on its redesigned consumer education Web site, which can be found at http://www.fordvehicles.com/innovation/sync/.
As SYNC capabilities expand, more experts essential
Ford SYNC seamlessly integrates a variety of technologies such as an onboard text-to-speech engine, a customer’s mobile phone and network, data-over-voice technology, an off-board routing engine and voice portal. Combined, these technologies enable:
Voice dialing allows users to press the “Push to Talk” button on the steering wheel, then say the name of the person they wish to call. SYNC will automatically connect with the names in the mobile phone’s contact list.
Voice control of MP3 devices lets users browse the music collection on a connected digital media player, mobile phone or USB drive by genre, album, artist and song title using simple voice commands, such as “Play Genre Rock,” “Play [artist]” or “Play Track [song title].”
911 Assist can place a call directly to a local 911 emergency operator in the event of an accident involving the activation of an air bag or, on certain vehicles, the emergency fuel pump shutoff. If an occupant cannot respond, SYNC can deliver a recorded message to the 911 service to alert an operator that a crash has occurred.
Vehicle Health Report gives customers the ability to monitor and manage their vehicle’s health in a single, easy-to-read report and receive important notifications. The report includes diagnostic systems’ statuses, scheduled maintenance, needed repairs from the last dealership visit, and will even alert owners of any open recalls.
Traffic, Directions & Information, SYNC’s newest application, can deliver personalized traffic reports, precise turn-by-turn driving directions and up-to-date information including business listings, news, sports and weather – without the need for a built-in or aftermarket navigation system.
New SYNC applications introduced in 2009 have dramatically expanded the system’s capabilities, and continue to set the standard for ease of use. SYNC allows customers to move seamlessly between their home, car and office, staying connected wherever they go.
Quotes
“With the ever-changing technology landscape, it was a strategic decision to work with Best Buy to provide our customers another expert resource on the Ford SYNC platform. “As we expand the capabilities of SYNC, we will need to educate our customers on the full benefits and expanded services of newly added applications. We couldn’t think of a better way for consumers to learn about new SYNC features than from the experts at Best Buy that they’ve learned to trust.”
– John Felice, General Manager, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury Marketing
“We have a strong belief that mobile technology should serve people and help them stay connected whether it’s at home, at work or in the car. We are excited to partner with Ford to educate consumers on its SYNC technology. Best Buy Mobile helps thousands of consumers every day get connected with mobile devices and services that make their lives better, and now we’re ready to do the same thing for Ford SYNC users.”
– Shawn Score, Best Buy Mobile President
“With the cadence of new product releases, we’ve found it is essential to assist our consumers with education on features, benefits and usage. While very intuitive, we’ve taken a proactive approach to SYNC marketing because it’s important that consumers understand just how SYNC has evolved beyond voice-activated music controls. Through these efforts, Ford has provided a touch point for drivers both online and offline to help maximize their driving experience while staying connected to the information they want, when they want it.”
– John Felice, General Manager, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury Marketing
Talk about your “conversation starters.” Ford has developed an intelligent vehicle-to-grid communications and control system for its demonstration electric vehicles including plug-in hybrids that “talks” directly with the grid.
This new technology – which builds on Ford’s connectivity technology such as SYNC®, SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide and Ford Work Solutions™ – allows the vehicle operator to program when to recharge the vehicle, for how long and at what utility rate.
All 21 of Ford’s fleet of plug-in hybrid Escapes will be equipped with the vehicle-to-grid communications technology for testing and to gather real world usage data. The first of the specially equipped plug-in hybrids has been delivered to American Electric Power of Columbus, Ohio. Ford’s other utility partners’ vehicles will also be equipped with the communications technology.
The intelligent interface
When plugged in, the battery systems of these specially equipped plug-in hybrids can communicate directly through wireless networking with the electrical grid via smart meters provided by utility companies. The owner uses the vehicle’s touch screen navigation interface and Ford Work Solutions in-dash computer to choose when the vehicle should recharge, for how long and at what utility rate.
For example, a vehicle owner could choose to accept a charge only during off-peak hours between midnight and 6 a.m. when electricity rates are cheaper, or when the grid is using only renewable energy such as wind or solar power.
Real-world research
Over the past two years, Ford and its energy industry partners have logged more than 75,000 miles on the plug-in hybrid test fleet – that’s the equivalent of driving around the world at the equator three times. The plug-in hybrid research focuses on four primary areas: battery technology, vehicle systems, customer usage and grid infrastructure.
Real-world usage and laboratory research is helping to accelerate the advancement of electrified vehicles. Ford and its research partners are now focusing on ways to make the recharging process easy and efficient for consumers. In addition to low-cost recharging at home through the use of a smart meter, Ford researchers say recharging away from home – whether at work, in a shopping mall parking lot or at a curbside station – needs to be as simple as plugging in and swiping a credit card.
Ford has previously announced it will launch 4 new electric vehicles within the next 3 years including;
Battery electric Transit Connect small commercial van in 2010
Battery electric Ford Focus in 2011
Next generation hybrid in 2012
Plug-in hybrid vehicle in 2012
QUOTES
“Electric vehicles are an important element of our strategy for improving fuel economy and reducing CO2 emissions. This vehicle-to-grid communication technology is an important step in the journey toward the widespread commercialization of electric vehicles.”
– Bill Ford, Ford’s executive chairman
“We are designing what plug-in hybrids and battery electric vehicles will be capable of in the future. Direct communication between vehicles and the grid can only be accomplished through collaboration between automakers and utility companies, which Ford and its partners are demonstrating with this technology.”
– Greg Frenette, manager of Ford’s Battery Electric Vehicle Applications
“Broad commercialization of electric transportation is not something a car company can achieve on its own. Developing and producing the vehicles is just one part of the electric transportation equation. We are well on our way to delivering the vehicles, but for widespread adoption the infrastructure to support the technology needs to be in place and we need to ensure that the national electric grid can support increased electric demand.”
– Nancy Gioia, Ford director, Sustainable Mobility Technologies
“Ford’s involvement in the collaboration with EPRI and some of the nation’s leading utilities will help accelerate the pace leading to the commercialization of PHEVs. This type of joint effort between an auto manufacturer and utilities will permit a more seamless integration of electric-drive vehicles into the power grid and the transportation sector.”
– Arshad Mansoor, vice president of EPRI’s Power Delivery and Utilization Sector
Ford delivers Fusion Hybrid equipped with 1 millionth SYNC unit to Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer
Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally personally delivered the Fusion Hybrid equipped with the milestone SYNC unit to Microsoft’s CEO Steve Ballmer. Powered by Microsoft Auto Software, SYNC is Ford’s fully integrated, voice-activated, in-car communications and entertainment system for mobile phones and digital music players.
Currently, more than 80 percent of the vehicles Ford sells in North America are equipped with the system, and SYNC-equipped vehicles sell twice as fast on dealers’ lots as units without.
Since its debut in 2007, SYNC has continued to add new applications to customers at no cost. In 2008, SYNC was upgraded with two new features, Vehicle Health Report and 911 Assist™. And, available for download later this month, Ford’s next-generation SYNC with Traffic, Directions and Information provides hands-free access to personalized traffic reports, precise driving directions and real-time information including business listings, news, sports scores and weather.
In addition to the convenient SYNC technologies, Microsoft’s Steve Ballmer can rely on his new 2010 Fusion Hybrid for fuel economy. The most fuel-efficient midsize car in America, the 2010 Fusion Hybrid has a certified 41 mpg rating in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, topping the Toyota Camry hybrid by 8 mpg in the city and 2 mpg on the highway.
Quotes
“We have made a commitment to deliver the vehicles that people really want and value. The success of SYNC is another proof point that we are doing just that. We will continue to innovate and expand the capability of SYNC by integrating even more new technologies that fit our customers’ lifestyles.” - - Alan Mulally, President and CEO, Ford Motor Company
“Working with Microsoft and other key technology partners, we’ve made Ford a connectivity leader in the auto industry. We do not plan to stand still; we have several additional developments in the pipeline, including launching SYNC in Europe and around the world.”
- Jim Buczkowski, Director of Electrical and Electronic Systems, Ford
Now you can talk to the people at Ford about what matters to you. Join us every week for Ford DigiKnows – a series of live interactive steaming video events. Each week our intrepid host, Michael Collins takes you the behind the scenes for the scoop on all things Ford. The DigiKnows live streaming event lets you talk with the experts from Ford, as they take you under the hood for a look at new and innovative Ford technologies. DigiKnows helps you uncover another side of Ford.
About DigiKnows #3
In our third episode on March 10th at 12:00 noon ET, Michael Collins with expert Doug VanDagens, Director of Ford's Connected Services Organization take a look at Ford SYNC™ technology. Doug will be discussing our newest service enhancements to SYNC, 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Reports.
Reinforcing research by Virginia Tech and the U.S. government, a recent Ford study concluded there are statistically significant differences in levels of driver distraction for voice-controlled interfaces such as SYNC versus visually and manually operated handheld devices. On average, participants of the study spent twenty five seconds to pick and choose a song on their handheld MP3 player, but only 2 seconds with SYNC. SYNC voice interface was designed as a simple way for drivers to stay connected while helping keep their eyes on the road, hands on the wheel. SYNC’s new Traffic, Directions and Information services provide simple hands-free access to personalized traffic reports, precise turn-by-turn driving directions and up-to-date information including business listings, news, sports, and weather – replacing potential hazards such as reading maps while driving.
The 2010 Escape, the small SUV with the best crash test ratings of any vehicle in its class, is increasing its technology leadership with the addition of five new features that improve safety, reduce driver distractions and aid drivers by automatically parallel parking their vehicle.
The new Escape, in showrooms this summer, will add MyKey™ teen-safety technology, Integrated Spotter Mirrors – both offered standard (MyKey on XLT and above models) – optional Rear View Camera System and SYNC with real-time Traffic, Directions and Information. The new model also will be the North America’s first SUV to offer Active Park Assist, which uses an ultrasonic-based sensing system and Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) to position the vehicle for parallel parking, calculate the optimal steering angle and quickly steer the vehicle into a parking spot.
The 2010 Escape’s new features include:
Integrated Spotter Mirror – a consumer-friendly, affordable blind spot technology that consists of an outside rearview mirror designed with a secondary convex spotter in the top outer corner, which is aimed exclusively at the driver's blind spot. When traffic enters the driver’s blind spot on either side of the vehicle, it is visible in the secondary convex mirror, helping provide the driver broader peripheral view.
MyKey – allows owners to program a key that can limit the vehicle’s top speed and audio volume. MyKey also encourages safety-belt usage, provides earlier low-fuel warnings and can be programmed to sound chimes at 45, 55 and 65 miles per hour. This feature is standard on Escape models featuring a message center cluster, including XLT and above.
Rear View Camera System – uses an exterior camera embedded in the rear of the vehicle that sends images to a video display in the rearview mirror or the navigation system screen to help enhance visibility directly behind the vehicle when the driver is in reverse. Ford is leveraging the affordability of high-quality video cameras to widely offer the technology with navigation systems. The rearview mirror system allows customers to choose an even more affordable version of the technology.
Active Park Assist – uses an ultrasonic-based sensing system and Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) to position the vehicle for parallel parking, calculate the optimal steering angle and quickly steer the vehicle into a parking spot. The technology is a major leap forward in speed and ease of use compared with the camera-reliant systems offered by competitors. Ford’s system requires less driver interface and reduces the risk of selecting a parking spot that is too tight. Ford’s Active Park Assist also works in downhill parking situations, unlike competing systems.
Next-gen SYNC – Ford is expanding its connectivity leadership by introducing exclusive new SYNC real-time information features that deliver personalized news updates to drivers’ mobile phones while helping them navigate around trouble spots, saving time and fuel. The new Escape is one of the first vehicles to feature this optional next-generation system – SYNC with Traffic, Directions and Information – which leverages industry-leading voice-recognition software, integrated GPS technology and a customer’s Bluetooth-capable mobile phone. SYNC’s new services provide simple hands-free access to personalized traffic reports, precise turn-by-turn driving directions and up-to-date information including business listings, news, sports and weather.
Safety Standard
The 2010 Ford Escape’s standard safety technologies also include:
AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control™) – the world’s only system with a gyroscopic sensor that actively measures and helps prevent both side-to-side “yaw” and roll movements
Safety Canopy® – a side air curtain technology offering protection for the first and second seating rows, and helps provide rollover and ejection protection with extended deployment in rollovers
Personal Safety System™ – a suite of seven safety technologies, including new dual-stage front air bags for the driver and front-seat passenger, side air bags and a front passenger sensor system
Tire Pressure Monitoring System – alerts drivers when tire pressure is low. Properly inflated tires not only are important for safety – they also can help improve fuel economy.
Quotes
“The Ford Escape is one of few vehicles that earned both the government’s highest possible 5-star crash safety ratings and a ‘Top Safety Pick’ in the hotly contested small SUV segment. These new technologies will help to take the new Escape to the next level of safety and driver satisfaction.”
- Susan Cischke, Ford’s group vice president of Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering
“Our vision with SYNC, MyKey and other new technologies is to be a technology leader, making it affordable for millions – just as Ford has done with safety and fuel-saving technologies. We are a car company that through market-driven, customer-focused innovation is learning to think and act like an electronics company, leveraging partnerships with fresh technology leaders.”
- Doug VanDagens, director of Ford’s Connected Services Organization..
“We know people want to stay connected in their vehicles, so Ford is continuing to deliver that connectivity for them responsibly and safely. Our SYNC research backs up what most of us instinctively know – that it is better while driving to place a call using a voice interface than dialing manually, because you can keep your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.”
- Susan Cischke, Ford’s group vice president of Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering
“Safety is a top consumer purchase consideration, second only to fuel efficiency, and smart technologies are increasingly in demand. So Escape’s new safety and driver assist technologies, along with its top crash safety ratings and unsurpassed highway fuel economy is a combination that’s hard to beat.”
- Tedros Mengiste, Ford's Escape and Mariner marketing manager
The new 2010 Taurus keeps Ford’s brand promise to bring technology to market at an affordable price.
Available this summer, Ford’s new 2010 Taurus will start at $25,995 – the same price as 2009 models but with more class-leading features, new technologies and perceived quality that rivals German luxury sedans. A wide selection of optional customer-focused technologies also will be available on the 2010 Taurus, including:
Adaptive Cruise Control – This technology allows the driver to set the vehicle cruising speed while using radar technology to monitor traffic travelling up to 600 feet ahead, automatically adjusting Taurus speed to help maintain a safe distance between vehicles.
Collision Warning – Using a radar sensor to sense moving vehicles ahead, the Collision Warning system provides a visual “heads-up” warning signal transmitted across the base of the windshield and an audible warning when slower moving traffic is detected ahead.
Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start – This new Taurus feature allows the driver to enter the car and start the engine by carrying the fob as they approach and enter the vehicle.
SecuriCode™ Keyless Entry – Enables vehicle access by unlocking the driver’s door using a five-digit code on the new keypad system flush-mounted in the driver’s side B-pillar.
MyKey™ – When enabled, MyKey features a Persistent Beltminder® with Audio Mute until safety belts are buckled, an earlier low-fuel warning, and consistently engaged AdvanceTrac® stability control, Blind Spot monitoring, Cross Traffic Alert and Forward Collision Warning.
Auto High Beams/ Rain-Sensing Wipers – Sensor technologies switch headlights to high intensity when no other vehicles are detected. Rain-sensing wipers use an advanced optical sensor to detect the intensity of rain and/or snowfall to adjust wiper speed.
Easy Fuel™ Capless Fuel Filler – An industry-exclusive feature that self-seals without a traditional fuel cap.
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS™) – When an approaching vehicle enters the defined blind spot zone, an indicator alert provides warning to the driver in the corresponding side view mirror.
Cross Traffic Alert – This industry-exclusive system, which leverages the existing BLIS technology, functions only while the vehicle is in reverse and warns when cross-traffic appears within three car widths.
Ford SYNC® – Fully integrated, SYNC is an in-vehicle voice-activated communications and entertainment system, with 911 Assist, Vehicle Health Report and GPS-based features including business search and call completion. SYNC connects to MP3 players, iPods, memory sticks and PDAs. SYNC’s 911 Assist™ will place a call to a local emergency operator in the event of an air bag deployment incident. The latest version of SYNC adds Traffic, Directions and Information, providing turn-by-turn route guidance, and the ability to access content by personalized favorites such as region, subject matter or sports team.
Multi-Contour Seats – Available on an industry-exclusive basis for driver and passenger, the seats feature six-way lumbar support and subtle rolling pattern massage. The bottom cushion features Active Motion, which provides minute but continuous pelvis movement, stirring a change of muscular activation helping a driver avoid back pain.
Quotes
“Taurus personifies the Ford brand promise – an engaging driving experience, expressive design, class-leading technologies, all offered at an unmatched value. Taurus raises the bar on the full-size sedan segment with an unprecedented offering of technologies typically reserved for luxury cars. The premium craftsmanship and attention to detail, combined with outstanding driving experience will redefine what customers should expect in a full-size sedan”
- Jim Farley, Ford’s Group Vice President of Marketing and Communications
“Multi-Contour seats will be a real benefit for long distance drivers, or people with back trouble. The key is their subtlety. Active Motion is enough to help relieve fatigue but not enough to be distracting to a driver.”
- Steve Michell, Ford Product Design Engineer
Study Shows Ford SYNC™ Reduces Driving Distractions, Helps Drivers Keep Eyes on Road
A new Ford study shows that the SYNC hands-free connectivity system, which recently earned Popular Mechanics’ Editor’s Choice Award for best new products, significantly reduces the level of distraction when drivers select a phone number or choose a song on their MP3 player compared with the same operations with hand-held cell phones and music players.
For example, the research conducted by Ford Motor Company shows study participants spent an average of 25 seconds with their eyes-off-the-road to select a song with a handheld MP3 player compared with 2 seconds for those choosing a song using SYNC.
SYNC allows drivers to connect almost any mobile phone or digital media player with their vehicle (via Bluetooth or USB connection). The driver is able to operate them by using voice commands and a steering wheel-mounted control.
The study’s 25 participants who are regular SYNC users performed seven typical tasks using SYNC’s voice interface and their personal handheld phones and music players. For each basic task, Ford researchers measured total eyes-off-the-road time, deviation of lane position, speed variability, and object detection response time to identify differences in attentiveness and driving performance.
Other findings included reading a text message on a handheld phone typically took the driver’s eyes off the road for 11 seconds compared to about 2 seconds when listening to the text message with SYNC's text-to-speech output. Drivers also meandered over lane lines in more than 30 percent of trials using handheld phones and music players for song, artist, and phone book contact selection, as compared to zero percent when performing those same tasks with SYNC. Study participants also spent an average of 25 seconds with their eyes-off-the-road to select a song with a handheld MP3 player compared with 2 seconds for those choosing a song using SYNC.
Ford’s study results are consistent with prior research, such as Virginia Tech and the U.S. Department of Transportation’s recent driving study, which followed 109 drivers for one year, including 42,300 hours of driving over two million miles. That study concluded that manually dialing a handheld device – a task that requires looks away from the road – while driving was almost 2.8 times riskier than normal driving. However, the on-the-road study showed that talking/listening on a phone while driving was no riskier than normal driving.
The success of SYNC continues to grow. By summer 2009, Ford’s entire North American lineup will offer this technology with more than 1 million SYNC-equipped vehicles on the road by the third quarter of 2009.
Lincoln C concept based on the idea of big luxury in a small package.
The Lincoln C concept vehicle is designed for the urban consumer who wants a smaller, more fuel-efficient car that can maneuver easily in congested areas and compact parking spaces. But with features like sustainable materials, in-car connectivity and meticulous detailing, it also brings to life the notion of premium quality in a small package,
The Lincoln C concept vehicle’s unique presence and elegance come from a variety of design elements, including:
An iconic Lincoln DNA: sheer surfaces bounded by defined creases; a cantilevered roof extending from a strong C-pillar; a confident double-wing chrome grille; full-width tail lamps and rocker brightwork.
The center-opening doors – a classic Lincoln trait that rekindles memories of the 1961 Continental – allow effortless access to first- and second-row bench seats.
An all-glass roof provides a modern, futuristic look. The expansive opening illuminates the cabin and enhances the sense of spaciousness inside the car.
A low shoulder line combines with a strong, high belt line to create a sense of safety and privacy inside and outside of the vehicle.
An all-white color palette interior -- from roof to seats to floor – with subtle chrome accents on the seats, instrument panel, door panels and floor.
A light gray wood interior veneer – made from recycled wood.
Luxurious and ergonomic bench seating in the front and back rows crafted from chromium-free leather and filled with soy foam.
The panoramic instrument panel is divided into three sections and designed with a mixture of digital and analog components. The left side contains Lincoln’s signature HMI menus and driver-related information. The center portion displays a multi-functional screen displaying navigation, SYNC details and a life-like custom avatar to help make everyday journeys more seamless and other helpful, driver-oriented options.
The roof also features an integrated rearview mirror and a chrome-trimmed Web camera that rotates to the right or left, depending on whether the driver or the passenger is communicating via the Internet.
Quotes
“Modern luxury buyers who live and work in large, urban areas want to play their part in helping the environment by moving to a smaller vehicle, but they still want to enjoy the luxuries of life. The Lincoln C offers sensible indulgence.”
- Peter Horbury, Executive director of Design, The Americas
“While the most luxurious and indulgent products often come in the smallest packages, unfortunately this hasn’t been true of most small cars recently. With the Lincoln C, we’ve remixed the traditional small car formula, taking the most engaging technologies and wrapping them in a design fit for today’s urban luxury customer – without sacrificing style or substance.”
- J Mays, Ford’s Group Vice President of Design
New in-car technologies improve driver information, connectivity and functionality.
Powered by a sophisticated human machine interface (HMI) and next-generation in-car connectivity features including Ford’s award-winning SYNC technology, an interactive life-like avatar and in-car Internet access.
Ford’s signature HMI system’s integrated platform offers tried-and-true methods of information control – steering wheel switches, touch screens and voice-activation. Useful and relevant information and functionality are immediately available to the driver in a way that is logical, easy to use and completely integrated. For example, the steering wheel controls mimic stereotypical five-way mapping similar to that found on most cell phones and MP3 players, making the system intuitive and familiar.
Customers also get the latest in terms of SYNC-enabled technologies, including hands-free, voice-activated cell phone, text messaging, and digital media player integration as well as security and personalized convenience features such as 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Reports.
Lincoln C’s in-car connectivity goes even further with an avatar – nicknamed “EVA” – that lives on the Lincoln C instrument panel and can take on a personalized visual image and personality. It responds to conversational speech, eliminating the need for menus or learned voice commands. Plus, EVA expertly manages and initiates all vehicle and SYNC-enabled functions and information to the driver.
The Lincoln C concept also offers in-car Internet access, allowing the avatar to surf the Web for the driver and read the morning’s online news headlines or latest restaurant reviews, check e-mail or advise the driver where they can refuel at the nearest gas station.
Quotes
“Before technologies such as SYNC were even crystallized, we knew we had to create a way for people to interface with their vehicle and its myriad technologies and features that was more manageable and limitless in terms of its ability to incorporate new innovations as they come. Our HMI had to create for the auto world what the mouse is to the PC world. The beauty of this system is that the way information is offered encourages you to explore deeper and deeper and discover – without fear or intimidation – just how much the product can do for you.”
- Gary Braddock, Ford’s Group Chief Designer
“Our vision for HMI is to make a customer’s transition from home, to car, to the office and back again be experienced as seamless and uncompromised. We want our vehicles to give you exactly what you need, when you need it and how need it. And, we want to do it in a way that adds emotion, personality and excitement for the customer.”
- John Schneider, Global Chief Engineer Responsible for HMI, Driver Controls and Infotainment
The distinctive new three-row 2010 Lincoln MKT offers luxuries of fuel economy, technology and space.
Joining the luxury crossover segment, the 2010 Lincoln MKT features Lincoln’s signature design, roomy three-row interior and intuitive technologies that will make customers’ lives easier – including available Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning with Brake Support, Active Park Assist, Blind Spot monitoring, SYNC – and more.
The Lincoln MKT offers two fuel-efficient engine choices in Ford’s proven 268 horsepower 3.7-liter V-6 or the new 3.5-liter V-6 EcoBoost™ engine that delivers even more performance with estimated 355 horsepower, without compromising its V-6 fuel economy.
Customers can choose how to best specify Lincoln MKT, which offers:
Customers’ choice of a standard fixed glass Panoramic Vista Roof™ with power-assisted front and rear sunshades – or the available Power Panoramic VistaTM roof
Either six- or seven-passenger variations with two different second-row seating configurations. A standard 60/ 40 split folding rear bench seat features heated outboard seating positions. Power “fold and tumble” bucket seats, with heating, cooling and power-assisted lumbar adjustment are also available. A rear console-mounted five-quart-capacity refrigerator is available in the individual bucket seating configuration
Second-row footrests and an available dual headrest Family Entertainment System with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens offering individual or simultaneous programming
A multitude of exterior paint colors, including Ingot Silver Clearcoat Metallic, Tuxedo Black Clearcoat Metallic, Red Candy Tint Clearcoat Metallic, Cinnamon Clearcoat Metallic, Steel Blue Clearcoat Metallic, Gold Leaf Clearcoat Metallic, Sterling Grey Clearcoat Metallic and White Platinum Tri-Coat
The Lincoln MKT will be built at Ford’s Oakville Assembly Complex in Ontario, Canada, and will be in dealer showrooms in late summer, where it will join the all-new Lincoln MKS and new 2010 Lincoln MKZ, further growing the brand’s momentum.
Quotes
“We’re growing Lincoln’s product portfolio with a full-size crossover that offers more of everything luxury buyers want today – including more variety. Lincoln MKT will help us further build momentum for Lincoln, which has been outpacing its luxury competitors and growing market share in recent months.”
- Mark Fields, Ford’s President of The Americas
“The Lincoln MKT strikes the optimum balance between capable and driver-engaging handling, while simultaneously delivering a smooth quiet ride in all three rows. It combines a luxury touring experience with an agile ride and available Class III towing strength, as well.”
- Ron Heiser, Lincoln MKT Chief Engineer
Ford announces plans to globalize its affordable industry-leading SYNC technologies and services.
In his keynote address , January 8, 2009 at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Ford President and CEO, Alan Mulally announced a new set of SYNC services that can deliver personalized traffic reports, precise turn-by-turn driving directions and up-to-date information including business listings, news, sports and weather – without the need for a built-in navigation system. The new technology does this by leveraging industry-leading voice-recognition software, integrated GPS technology and a customer’s Bluetooth-capable mobile phone.
The new service will be available on all 2010 model-year, SYNC-equipped Ford, Lincoln and Mercury models with no monthly subscription fees for the first three years. In addition, the SYNC system is upgradeable. Customers can add new features and applications by using simple download features at syncmyride.com. Ford also announced a partnership with leading electronics retailer Best Buy, to help build SYNC awareness and provide tech support through its Geek Squad.
What does the future hold? Ford hints at the future of in-car connectivity with totally configurable cockpit concept with intuitive, conversational electronic personal assistant, or “avatar,” named Eva.
Ford will also be making the award-winning SYNC system available globally starting in 2010, first in Europe, and then migrating to Asia Pacific and Australia.
Quotes
“No one in the automotive industry offers this level of connectivity as simply and affordably as Ford. Our SYNC platform links customers from their vehicles to their hand-held devices to the internet -- a level of connectivity that will continue to expand as we integrate new and emerging applications from our industry-leading partners.”
- Alan Mulally, Ford President and CEO, (first keynote address at CES Thursday January 8, 2009)
“Ford is all about making the journey from point A to point B a more enjoyable and richer experience, with intuitive, easy-to-use controls and voice-activated, hands-free operation. We want to create a truly a rich driving environment where there is no compromise in connectivity – where everything you expect will be at your fingertips or voice command, integrated into your drive with minimal distraction.”
- Jim Buczkowski, Ford Director of Electronics Systems Engineering
Lincoln MKS is the all-new Lincoln luxury flagship, a dynamic and elegant vision of the Lincoln design DNA that is meticulously crafted with the largest selection of comfort and convenience technology features of any other luxury sedan in its class, including: Adaptive Cruise Control, Intelligent Access with Push-button Start, next-generation SecuriCode™ Keyless Entry, Adaptive HID headlamps with Auto High Beam, Rain-Sensing Wipers, Forward Sensing System, Rearview Camera System and Easy Fuel™ capless refueling.
Classic Mustang design meets modern technology and a host of new features
A muscular exterior design with a new world-class interior, a V-8 engine with more horsepower, a wide array of options and heritage-inspired elements are the hallmarks of the new 2010 Mustang.
Here’s a look at the major pillars of the 2010 Mustang:
Design
Except for the fast-back roofline, the exterior sheet metal is all new, giving the 2010 Mustang a more aggressive, cleaner look. By tucking the washer-fluid nozzles into the cowl, it’s now easier to customize the vehicle with racing stripes. Inside, the powerful one-piece instrument panel, which flows into the console, is crafted in seamless soft-touch TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) skin fully encompassing genuine aluminum-finish panels. Chromed-ringed gauges and seating made from softer materials round out just a few of the design highlights.
Powertrain
Emitting an even throatier signature exhaust sound, the 2010 Mustang features either a 4.0-liter V-6 or a 4.6-liter V-8 engine choice with either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. Ford Racing Technology pioneered that cold-air induction system that allows the V-8 engine to deliver 315 horsepower. The redline for the V-8 is increased 250 rpm to 6,500, and revised calibration ensures the customer fully feels these changes. Both the V-6 and V-8 engines have larger exhaust tips, going to 3 and 3 ½ inches, respectively, up ½ inch from the previous model.
Features
Offering added connectivity, the 2010 Mustang includes the industry-exclusive SYNC system, next-generation, voice-activated navigation with SIRIUS Travel Link that can provide Ford customers with real-time traffic data, weather conditions, fuel price information and much more. Additionally, the available Reverse Camera System gives the driver a clear view behind the vehicle. The Ambient Lighting System with MyColor™ allows drivers to customize the interior lighting of the vehicle to suit their mood. The enhanced MyColor system offers seven base colors – ice blue, purple, blue, orange, red, white and green.
Heritage
Introduced in 1964, Mustang has become a part of the American fabric, an iconic vehicle. Selling more than 9 million units, Mustang has been the best-selling muscle car in America for the last 22 years. The 2010 Mustang draws from this heritage. Inspired by the 1970 Mustang, the headlamps and turn indicators are integrated into one unit. On the V-6 models, the fog lamps are located on the lower fascia, while on the GT the fog lamps are again located in the upper grille – but are smaller than the outgoing model, similar to the original lamps of the 1967-68 models that inspired them.
Quotes
“This is the most-robust, most-accessorized engine in the marketplace today. No one has the reliability, no one has the upgraded options. This is a fantastic engine, proven on the race track, the drag strip and on the highway.”
- Paul Randle, Ford Mustang Chief Engineer
“The 2010 Mustang runs great on regular fuel, and that is where we quote our peak numbers, but we also have a great dual-adaptive knock calibration that allows the 2010 Mustang to run on regular fuel as well as premium fuel, and the system figures it out itself. It also improves the torque of the engine in the low- to mid-rpm range.”
- Chris Roxin, Ford Mustang Powertrain Supervisor
“There is definite Mustang DNA in the 2010 air register design. The combination of circular and rectangular register shapes is well-represented in our family tree, but the forms are definitely modern and inspired by the exhaust outlets drilled into the aluminum. Each gauge is fully encircled with chrome rings inset precisely into the instrument panel to achieve a well-crafted appearance.”
- Gary Morales, Mustang Design Manager
“The best Mustangs have always been the ones that connect young America with the spirit of the times – and the 2010 does exactly that. The new Mustang is close to the magnetic center of the original, fully loaded with the swagger you’d expect, but with modern refinement and attention to detail like you’ve never seen in a muscle car.”
- J Mays, Ford’s Group President of Design
New online video shows how Ford SYNC technology works
In under three minutes, the Common Craft video “Ford SYNC in Plain English” explains exactly how the voice-activated, in-car communications technology known as SYNC lets Ford customers play music, call friends or receive text messages, without ever taking a hand off the wheel.
Using only a whiteboard, hands and paper cutouts, the video shows how SYNC’s sophisticated technology – developed by Ford in partnership with Microsoft – allows users to access their MP3 players and navigate by song, artist, album or playlist using simple voice commands. It also covers how Ford customers can use almost any Bluetooth-enabled phone with SYNC to make hands-free calls. SYNC will even read text messages over the vehicle’s speakers, so drivers can keep their eyes on the road.
Simply by pushing a button on the steering wheel, Ford owners can stay connected to their friends, their work and their music. SYNC is affordable, factory-installed and optional on most Ford cars, crossovers, SUVs and trucks.
Ford partnered with Common Craft, an online video production company that is well known for creating videos that make complex ideas easy to understand using the distinctive format they call Paperworks. In addition to the “Ford SYNC in Plain English” video, Common Craft has created videos viewed by millions of people online, including “RSS in Plain English” and “Wikis in Plain English.”
Ford Focus cited as a cool, affordable car by Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com
For the fourth consecutive year, Ford Focus has been recognized as “one of the coolest new cars under $18,000” based on pricing under $18,000 by Kelley Blue Book’s New Car Blue Book Values (what consumers are actually paying for the vehicle). The Focus came in at $14,942.
To narrow the list to 10 from the 40 cars considered the kkb.com editors used fuel economy, comfort, technology, safety, interior size and the fun-to-drive factor as criteria.
Strong consumer demand drove Ford Focus retail sales up 35 percent in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the same period last year. To keep up, Ford is increasing Focus production in 2008 by nearly 30 percent to 245,000 units.
The Focus’ fuel efficiency, which delivers 35 miles to the gallon, combined with features like Ford’s SYNC – the voice-activated in-car communications and entertainment technology that integrates Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and digital music players – have made the vehicle a popular choice with customers between the ages of 16 and 35. This younger set accounts for approximately 30 percent of Focus sales.
The award-winning SYNC in-car communication system is now available to select Navigator customers.
Ford has just released its first dealer-installed SYNC kit that is fully functional, completely seamless and upgradeable to support SYNC features and functions. The installation time is quick, taking under two hours, and at under $550 dollars, the retrofit kit is highly affordable.
Owners of select 2008 Navigator or Navigator L models can get the Ford SYNC retrofit kit installed in vehicles equipped with the Elite Package that includes the voice-activated navigation radio and rear seat DVD. Vehicles must also have been built after December 4, 2007.
There is no need for an add-on HMI or microphone to operate SYNC as the system uses the existing steering wheel button controls and voice-activation functionality connected to the navigation system.
Committed to continually improving in-car connectivity, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicle owners that have either factory- or dealer-installed SYNC will be able to upgrade the system's software and access future features and functions. Two new features that will be introduced later in 2009 include:
911 Assist – This free-of-charge accident assistance feature can place a call to a local 911 operator should the air bag deploy. The driver must have a cell phone that is properly paired, turned on and connected to SYNC.
Vehicle Health Report (VHR) – Customers can stay on top of all vehicle maintenance with a simple voice request at any time. Vehicle owners first set up their personal preferences at the SYNC Web site (www.syncmyride.com).
These types of ongoing innovations have ensured that Ford SYNC is on track to reach 1 million sales in 2009. This summer Ford SYNC will be available to the all-new Ford Flex, F-150 and Lincoln MKS. The 2009 model year Lincoln Navigator, which will launch later this year, will come factory-equipped with SYNC as a standard feature.
Raising the Bar for Full-Sized Luxury Sedan Style.
Timeless design, a fuel-efficient powertrain, industry-first conveniences and an irresistible price are the hallmarks of the Lincoln MKS. The exterior design features a sleek, athletic design including a double-wing grille, dramatic C-pillars, and wide wheels and tires, giving the Lincoln MKS a confident stance.
Luxury carries through the interior as well, with abundant space. Drivers will appreciate the MKS symmetrical instrument panel that has fewer break lines than any other luxury vehicle, for a clean design flow. Passengers can relax in the largest rear cabin in its class including head, leg and shoulder room.
To be sure, accents such as real woods and leather are sumptuous, but not at the expense of the environment. Vegetable dyes, a chromium-free tanning process and reclaimed wood help ensure that the MKS is as eco-friendly as it is customer-friendly.
Other evidence of the unmistakable Lincoln MKS quality of design include:
Independent rear suspension design that maximizes suspension travel and ensures more precise suspension tuning
SYNC, a voice-activated in-car communication and entertainment system that fully integrates most Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and digital media players, providing customers hands-free cell phone and music selection capabilities.
SIRIUS Travel Link provides drivers and their passengers with the comfort of up-to-the-minute information and entertainment content, including real-time traffic information, current gas prices, weather forecasts, sports scores and movie listings.
Adaptive headlamps and standard HID lamps that enhance nighttime visibility by pivoting the left headlamp up to five degrees and the right headlamp up to 15 degrees to increase the driver’s field of vision.
Intelligent Access with Push Button Start that allows drivers to enter their vehicle through the use of a special fob, without ever having to fiddle for a key.
Rain-sensing wipers activate at the first drop of rain and are easily programmed for driver preferences.
A true American mid-sized luxury sedan offers extensive standard features.
In 2008, the Lincoln MKZ, a premium five-passenger sedan, has a more powerful Duratec 35 V-6 engine, which delivers a peppy 263 horsepower and 249 lb.-ft of torque for a confident, relaxed ride.
The crisp, powerful exterior design, with its standard waterfall chrome grille and solar tinted windshield is just a preview of what the interior of the MKZ holds for customers. Inside, accents such as a leather-wrapped shifter knob and steering wheel, auto-dimming mirror, keyless entry system and power-heated front seats are indicative of the superior comfort level Lincoln MKZ owners can expect from their vehicle.
The 2008 Lincoln MKZ packs more features than before, setting the standard of excellence for a luxury mid-sized sedan, including:
SYNC, a voice-activated in-car communication and entertainment system that fully integrates most Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and digital media players, providing customers hands-free cell phone and music selection capabilities
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Front-bumper mounted fog lamps
Power windows
Rear window defroster
Reverse sensing system
Belt-Minder® — Driver and passenger safety belt reminder
Power four-wheel ventilated disc anti-lock brake system (ABS)
Dual-stage front airbags for driver and front passenger
Crash severity sensor
Available with an automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, optional features include a power moonroof and voice-activated navigation system. Customers can enhance their entertainment enjoyment by opting for the THX® II Certified Car Audio System with AM/FM six-disc in-dash CD-changer/MP3 and 14 Speakers, which includes two subwoofers, 12 amplifier channels and 600 watts of power.
Ford Focus attracts younger buyers seeking sync, connectivity and fuel economy
Focus’ retail sales have been up year-over-year for the past three months – and February retail sales also are tracking above year-ago levels. The small car’s sales were up 18 percent in November – the car’s first full month on the market – followed by a 9 percent increase in December and 33 percent in January.
J.D. Power sales data show that 32 percent of 2008 Focus year buyers are 16 to 35 years old. That’s up from 28 percent of 2007 Focus buyers.
Helping drive the trend: More Millennials who are becoming drivers – and vehicle buyers. Born between 1980 and 1995, approximately 70 million Millennials live in the U.S. Each day, more than 11,000 of these savvy consumers reach driving age, looking for stylish, fuel-efficient vehicles that feature the latest technology.
Ford is ready with a mix of accessible vehicles – including Focus – that feature industry-leading connectivity technology with SYNC, improved fuel economy, an array of safety features and creature comforts such as the popular ambient lighting feature that allows occupants to cycle the cabin lighting through seven available colors depending on their mood.
SYNC’s advanced capability allows consumers to access the songs, artists, genres, albums, play lists and more through voice commands. Powered by Microsoft and launched in the fall of 2007, the award-winning system is available in 12 vehicles from Ford, Lincoln and Mercury.
Ford Focus sales are gaining momentum, with three consecutive months of year-over-year retail sales volume increases. February sales are on track to trump February 2007 retail sales.
Ford’s strategy of simplifying the Focus vehicle line, along with offering affordable industry-first SYNC technology, is paying off.
Nearly 40 percent of the 2008 model year Focus units sold during the past three months included SYNC. SYNC-equipped Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles sell nearly twice as fast as those without.
Ford Work Solutions gets you online on-site, and anything else you need to be productive
Thirty-five percent of F-150s, and 65 percent of F-Series Super Duty, are sold to commercial customers. In fact, Ford commands a 40 percent share of the total commercial vehicle market for class 2 to class 7 trucks.
Commercial drivers need productivity-focused features for effective on-site project management. The new 2009 F-150 and F-Series Super Duty become true mobile offices with the Ford Work Solutions suite of technological tools that let the working professional:
Print and access any Word document, Excel spreadsheet or business accounting program stored on their home or office computer, make changes, and send to the battery-powered inkjet printer in their truck. Remotely access QuickBooks, engineering drawings and other files without having to load software onto the vehicle’s computer.
Keep track of high-value tools, safety equipment and material inventories. The driver is alerted by in-dash computer screen if anything is missing on the truck. Tool Link also saves a snapshot of the first list of the day to reference against at the day’s end.
Navigate with Garmin features like re-routing due to construction or traffic congestion, finding local restaurants, Ford dealerships, Quick Lane Tire & Auto Centers, etc., real-time weather and traffic reports, and information on current fuel prices.
Make hands-free calls with access to their phonebooks and the ability to send and receive text messages.
Have peace of mind that their valuable business assets are safely locked away with an easily installed and gently retractable cable and MasterLock® key set.
Ford Work Solutions will be available later this summer on the 2009 F-150 XL, XLT and FX4, and F-Series Super Duty XL and XLT pickups and E-Series vans. Transit Connect vans join the lineup in mid 2009. Many items will be available for dealer installation to upgrade existing trucks already in service.
Someone Will Drive Away in a 2008 Focus in 'SYNC Your Life' Video Contest
Ford Motor Company introduces the 'SYNC Your Life' video contest that lets you imagine how you could voice-activate your life – just like the Ford SYNC in-car communication and entertainment system lets you listen to mp3 players and use your cell phone hands-free while you drive. You can SYNC your morning coffeemaker, your exercise machine, the door to your house – the sky's the limit and creativity counts.
The contest prizes are:
Grand Prize: One person wins a 2008 Ford Focus SES equipped with SYNC; the winner’s video will be used in an online advertisement.
First Prize: 5 winners will receive a Sony DVD high-definition handycam camcorder.
Second Prize: 5 winners will receive an Xbox 360 Arcade.
Third Prize: 5 winners will receive a $100 AMEX gift card.
After you've made your video, you upload it to http://www.jumpcut.com/syncyourlife/. You can also upload raw footage of your video shoot and edit it online. Keep in mind that there is a 100 MB limit on individual files, and it’s best to mark your video as “private – not remixable.”
You can upload your video until May 14, 2008, 11:59 p.m. EST.
Industry-exclusive Ford SYNC™ is a fully integrated, voice- activated in-car communications and entertainment system that works with most Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and digital media players.
Now accessible and affordable. One might expect this technology to be available only on luxury vehicles, but Ford SYNC is standard on the 2008 Ford Focus SES and priced at $395 as an option on other Focus trims.
Value Leader. The 2008 Ford Focus starts at $14,695 and offers the best value in its segment along with an all-new design, fuel economy in the mid-30s and such available class-exclusive features as Ford Sync™ and factory-installed ambient lighting.
As diesel fans around the world anticipate National Biodiesel Day on March 18, the birthday of the famed engine inventor, Rudolf Diesel, Ford readies for customers the new 2011 Super Duty and its all-new 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbocharged diesel engine with unsurpassed biodiesel compatibility.
Ford is adding an exciting new element to its sponsorship of the hit television series “American Idol,” giving the top 12 Idols a unique opportunity to work with Ford designers and create their own personalized 2011 Ford Fiesta.
Hello from Cologne to all the other Mustangs in foreign countries !
I went to Germany in the year 2006 and was sold to a guy who has been working for Ford for more than
23 years!! After a Ford Taunus in 1981, several Ford Escorts and several Ford Fiestas in the following years I am now his absolute favorite. He loves me and takes me to lots of Ford Mustang Reunions here in Germany. Meanwhile I have several Pony friends here :-)))
Good Luck to all of you !
Ford vehicles are still durable and easy to handle, but the women behind the wheel bear little resemblance to the hothouse flower of yesteryear.
Ford keeps buzz alive with Fiesta Movement's new social media push: http://bit.ly/d0yiY9 via @addthis ^EA #2010/03/16
What's the best selling small car in Europe and the No. 2 best selling car overall in Europe in Feb? Take a guess. http://bit.ly/cWGRI4 ^EA #2010/03/15
