Ford discusses in-car tech

Car manufacturers who are looking to give drivers even more control of  technology have been rolling out features such as voice command, MP3 support, GPS navigation and other features that are becoming commonplace in new vehicles.

And although drivers and passengers are bringing more and more technology into vehicles, it’s still difficult to utilize so many different features at once. It’s also dangerous, as drivers can become distracted from safely operating their vehicle.  The Ford SYNC, and similar in-car technology hubs, allow drivers to have more flexibility while also staying safe on the road.

To help learn about one of the leading technologies in cars today, MyCE recently spoke with American automaker Ford regarding its SYNC system.  SYNC’s features include text-to-speech, GPS, data-over-voice, hands-free calling, and MP3 support.

“Ford SYNC, developed with Microsoft, is an advanced software platform that provides customers the convenience and flexibility to bring digital media player and Bluetooth-enabled phones into their vehicles and operate the devices via voice commands or with the steering wheel’s redundant radio controls,” Ford PR spokesperson Octavio Navarro told MyCE.  “We know people want to stay connected in their vehicles, so Ford is continuing to deliver that connectivity for them responsibly and safely.”

Unlike some portable GPS devices, SYNC is completely software-based, allowing drivers of SYNC-enabled vehicles to upgrade for new features.  Furthermore, Ford may provide an open platform that will allow third-party developers to become involved in creating apps that can be chosen by drivers.

Until then, Ford plans to continue riding the wave of success it has seen with SYNC.  The feature is so popular, in fact, that Ford-equipped vehicles sell twice as fast as vehicles without it, according to Ford.  The automaker also is rolling out SYNC in even more car models, allowing more consumers the choice of including the technology in their new vehicle purchase.

“As more technology is added to vehicles owners benefit because they need less and less external devices to have all the functions they need.  For instance, in-car navigation eliminates the need for an external device that would require unsightly wires or limit visibility because the unit is mounted on the dash board.  And with the voice-activated navigation, like the one available through Ford, drivers can use the function in a hands-free way.”