Ford Grows Range of Connected Vehicles

Ford is continuing to grow its range of connected vehicles with the addition of Bluetooth connectivity on its Figo Ambiente models.

The Figo’s contemporary design, solid performance credentials and desirable safety features have seen it gain acclaim as a value-for-money prospect, so much so that the Figo 1.4 Ambiente emerged as the best-selling individual model in South Africa in 2013.

“The Figo Ambiente topped the sales charts at the end of last year demonstrating its appeal among the South African public,” says Ford Marketing Manager Gavin Golightly.

The Figo range offers plenty of appeal with dual front airbags, ABS with EBD and PATS (Passive Anti-Theft System) available across the Figo range in South Africa. Now with the addition of Bluetooth connectivity to Ambiente models, customers will have an even more attractive value proposition on hand.

The Figo’s In Car Entertainment system allows you to switch between radio, CD or MP3 player easily and with added versatility. The Bluetooth system allows you to connect a mobile phone to the audio system and therefore connect and disconnect calls through the system, and stream music from your phone. Caller identification is shown on the vehicle’s display and phonebook contacts and call history can be synchronised with the audio system.

“We know our customers value the ability to stay connected in their vehicles, so Ford is continuing to deliver that connectivity for them responsibly and safely,” adds Golightly. “In addition to Bluetooth, we offer a variety of technologies throughout the product line-up such as Ford’s award-winning SYNC® system.”

Using the hands-free technology of SYNC, powered by Microsoft®, customers can connect almost any mobile phone or digital media player to their car via Bluetooth, USB, and line-in connection. Drivers can use either steering wheel-mounted controls or voice commands to manage the system’s features.

The Fiesta, Fiesta ST, Focus, Focus ST, EcoSport, Kuga, Transit and Tourneo are all equipped with SYNC technology.

“SYNC has been integral to keeping pace with the consumer, delivering value through smart and convenient features that help keep them connected to their digital lives in a safer, simpler and smarter way.”

During 2014, Ford will introduce another smart connectivity feature when it launches AppLink. SYNC with AppLink is the industry’s only system that allows you to use voice commands to control select applications (apps) on your smartphone. Ford will introduce AppLink on most SYNC-equipped vehicles in the coming months.

“SYNC AppLink opens up a whole new world of content to Ford customers that they can access on the move by voice control while keeping their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road,” Golightly concludes.