Earlier this year BMW announced remote starting for the latte and smashed avo market, now Ford give Tradies the same level of luxury when buying a new Ranger.
Launched in July by Ford, novated leased and fleet buyers can now experience FordPass Connect, with the first ‘connected’ Ford Rangers, Transits and Everests arriving in dealerships across the country. The FordPass Connect embedded modem pairs with the FordPass smartphone app to unlock a range of new connected servicesi.
The FordPass app is now available for download free of charge for Apple and Android devices, with immediate benefits for customers with compatible Ford models. In addition to rolling out on Ranger, Everest and Transit this month, going forward, all Ford new model year releases will arrive fitted with FordPass Connect, with full line-up coverage to be achieved by early 2021.
“Whether you’re a young family, small business or just like the convenience, FordPass Connect can really make so many day-to-day tasks easier,” said Christine Wagner, Mobility and Connectivity Manager, Ford Australia.
In addition to FordPass Connect, every new Ford model release will include a comprehensive suite of technology for a seamless, convenient vehicle experience. This includes SYNC 3, enabling Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice-activated sat-nav as well as Autonomous Emergency Braking across the entire Ford line-up.
When used together, key features of FordPass and FordPass Connect include:
- Vehicle Status and Remote Vehicle Monitoring: 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 the convenience of their smartphone.
- Remote Start and Stopii: Using the FordPass app, 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. This helps ensure a cool, comfortable interior on a hot Australian summer day, or a de-iced, warmed and inviting vehicle in winter. The vehicle is ready to be driven once the driver arrives with the key.
- Remote Lock and Unlock: 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.
- Live Traffic Updatesiii : The Live Traffic Update capability delivers ongoing, instant traffic updates to provide more accurate, convenient navigation in congested areas. It includes comprehensive traffic information, and offers an alternate route when detecting congestion and heavy traffic conditions.
- Vehicle Locatoriv : 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. This is even more convenient where you share your vehicle with one or more members of your household.
- Vehicle Health Alerts: 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, and more. The alert is designed to identify specific issues and even recommend a course of action.
Customers can access additional information on FordPass Connect at ford.com.au/fordpass, or download the FordPass app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
i Use of FordPass is subject to the FordPass Terms and Privacy Policy and the Connected Vehicle Terms and Privacy Policy available on ford.com.au/fordpass and requires a compatible mobile device, internet access and software (including software updates from time to time). The user is responsible for internet access, mobile network data and voice call services required for use of the FordPass App on their mobile device, including associated fees. The FordPass App and FordPass Connect modem can only work when both are connected to the telecommunications network. Ford cannot guarantee that FordPass will be in fully operating condition at all times and the FordPass App may be unavailable or particular FordPass services interrupted. Ford is not responsible for any limitations or restrictions of the telecommunications network or of the user’s mobile device.
iiRemote Start and Stop on Automatic variants only. Use responsibly and only in well ventilated areas where you are aware of your vehicle’s surroundings.
iiiLive Traffic is included with FordPass Connect for the first three years, starting on the Ford Express New Vehicle Warranty start date, and is only available on models equipped with embedded SYNC 3 Satellite Navigation. On Transit vehicles, Live Traffic not available before October 2020.
ivVehicle locator only available when Vehicle Location setting is on.
