Henry Ford technical fellow Jim Buchowski said his company plans to continue its pioneering role in the “smart car” space as a means of differentiating its product from those of other manufacturers by “creating new experiences for consumers.”
Ford will continue to take a somewhat platform-independent approach that sees the focus more on software and apps rather than hardware.
“Our approach will continue to be not building the technology into the vehicle, because once you’ve got a 3G modem built-on and 4G comes along, you’re stuck,” Buchowski said.
Initiatives Ford is showcasing at this year’s CES include onboard health monitoring devices that will help drivers with medical issues. Things like back-up cameras that can make it easy for one person to do things like attach a trailer hitch are also a focus.
These are extensions to technologies Ford has rolled out over the past two CES shows. SYNC, which integrates Wi-Fi hotspotting directly into the vehicles, allows the car to seamlessly interface with phones, mobile music devices and navigation systems (including voice commands) and MyFord Touch, which puts controls at the driver’s fingertips.
Ford is utilizing the Windows platform. At present there are more than 3 million vehicles equipped with SYNC.
Where to see it: North Hall, Grand Lobby, Lower Level, 2230
Henry Ford technical fellow Jim Buchowski said his company plans to continue its pioneering role in the “smart car” space as a means of differentiating its product from those of other manufacturers by “creating new experiences for consumers.”
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