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Ford, Vodafone introduce high-tech car
Friday, February 23 2001
by Tony O'Brien


The Ford Focus is set to become one of the first European cars to be fitted with
voice-driven telematics in a new deal agreed with Vodafone.

The new service, which will provide advanced voice-driven telematic safety,
security and information services to drivers, is being introduced in Germany
initially.



It will be launched in Germany next month through the local Vodafone subsidiary,
D2, as an option on the Ford Focus.



The service will later be launched in the UK, although it is unclear when Ireland
would be included.



The system, using network services and technical capability provided by Vodafone
Group and its networks across the continent, will include GSM cellular and Global
Positioning System (GPS) technology and roadside assistance.



Included also will be traffic information, dynamic re-routing as well as operator
and voice controlled phone service.  



The telematics system will later be extended to offer drivers personalised
information, including news, stock quotes, weather and messaging.



The main telematic functions are accessed via four buttons integrated into the
front panel of the stereo system in the Ford Focus.



An SOS button connects the driver with the emergency services who will be
automatically alerted if the airbag is deployed.  The integrated Global
Positioning System identifies the vehicle's location.



Button Two provides a direct link to the Ford Telematics Operator Services,
available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing personal information
concerning routes, tips to avoid traffic jams or location of services such as
petrol stations, hotels or local attractions.



Other functions include automatic retrieval of localised traffic information and
an interactive voice platform, enabling the driver or passenger to make phone
calls and access personalised information.



Using voice recognition and text to speech technology, the system recognised
spoken phone numbers as well as the names of previously entered contacts.



"Telematics gives us a whole new opportunity to satisfy customers", said David
Thursfield, President and CEO, Ford of Europe.