New model year 2020 Ranger, Everest and Transit vehicles arriving into dealerships this month will debut the FordPass Connect embedded modem.
It pairs with the FordPass smart phone app to unlock a range of new connected services.
However, Ford Australia and New Zealand mobility and connectivity manager Christine Wagner says the embedded modem cannot be retrofitted to earlier production vehicles.
FordPass launch director Jonathan Richards says more than 7 million Ford owners around the globe are already using this technology.
By early 2021 all new Ford vehicles on sale in New Zealand will have the FordPass Connect embedded modem fitted as standard.
Pairing the modem to the app will enable Ford owners to remotely lock and unlock their vehicles, remotely start the vehicle (automatic only), as well as remotely check on the status, health and location of the vehicle and receive live traffic updates.
The FordPass app provides easy access to warranty details and owner’s manual, roadside assistance contact number, and online service booking (at participating dealers).
It available for download free of charge for Apple and Android devices, with immediate benefits for customers with compatible Ford models.
“FordPass Connect is another way we’re bringing simple-to-use technology into the hands of Ford owners and their families,” Ford New Zealand managing director Simon Rutherford says.
“As our best-selling vehicles in New Zealand, we’ve chosen Ranger, Everest and Transit as the first to offer this technology as standard.”
Through the FordPass app’s Vehicle Status feature, owners can check their vehicle’s key variables including fuel level, tyre pressures (where digital read-out tyre pressure monitoring system is fitted) and mileage through a smartphone.
Drivers can start their vehicle’s engine from home, the office or elsewhere via smartphone, enabling the vehicle’s cabin to commence heating or cooling to the last known setting. The vehicle is ready to be driven once the driver arrives with the key.
Drivers can lock and unlock their Ford remotely, meaning they don’t have to rush back to their cars to check if they have remembered to lock their doors. This also allows drivers to let passengers into their vehicle regardless of whether they are there or not.
The Live Traffic Update capability delivers ongoing, instant traffic updates to provide more accurate navigation in congested areas. It includes traffic information, and offers an alternate route when detecting congestion and heavy traffic conditions.
Courtesy of a map and location tracker in the FordPass app, drivers can find their way back to their vehicle in a busy parking area without the need to remember exactly where they parked it.
The FordPass app capability extends to Vehicle Health Alerts, which can be sent directly to a smart device pre-empting service needs, general maintenance such as a washer fluid low alert. It is designed to identify specific issues and recommend a course of action.
Customers can access additional information on FordPass Connect at ford.co.nz/fordpass, or download the FordPass app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
