Broadband News
News, views and analysis
Ford revs up in-car broadband
23 Dec 2009 | 16.28 Europe/London
Ford has announced a new version of its SYNC in-car entertainment and communications system that will use mobile broadband to connect to the internet, and WiFi to turn the vehicle into a hotspot on wheels.
The new system, which will be introduced in America next year, could prove to be a big hit with cost conscious consumers. Unlike other types of in-vehicle broadband, Ford’s system will allow customers to plug in their existing wireless dongles to get connectivity, and so does not require additional equipment or a separate subscription.
Explaining the benefits of the system, Mark Fields, president of Ford Americas, said: “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 you’re not paying for yet another mobile subscription or piece of hardware because Ford will let you use technology you already have.”
While there’s no word on whether this innovation will be coming to the UK, it’s worth noting that Ford is the UK’s favourite car maker. In a recent poll by AutoTrader magazine, the Ford Focus was voted the UK’s most popular car of the decade, with the Ford Fiesta and Ford Mondeo also winning positions in the top five.
The new system, which will be introduced in America next year, could prove to be a big hit with cost conscious consumers. Unlike other types of in-vehicle broadband, Ford’s system will allow customers to plug in their existing wireless dongles to get connectivity, and so does not require additional equipment or a separate subscription.
Explaining the benefits of the system, Mark Fields, president of Ford Americas, said: “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 you’re not paying for yet another mobile subscription or piece of hardware because Ford will let you use technology you already have.”
While there’s no word on whether this innovation will be coming to the UK, it’s worth noting that Ford is the UK’s favourite car maker. In a recent poll by AutoTrader magazine, the Ford Focus was voted the UK’s most popular car of the decade, with the Ford Fiesta and Ford Mondeo also winning positions in the top five.