Ford vehicle drivers looking for a parking spot or cheap fuel options won’t have to fumble for their smartphone while driving. The Dearborn, Michigan-based automaker has announced a partnership With INRIX to deliver technologies to assist with these functions in the new SYNC 4 infotainment system.
The system allows drivers to search for, compare, and drive to parking options as well as searching for one (or more) of their available 380,000 fuel pumps in the system. Real-time parking service is available in around 20,000 cities and 150 countries, and includes routes to the closest street and garage spot, including rates, restrictions and real-time occupancy. Users are able to use the technology via touch or voice recognition technology.
SYNC 4’s screen shows a user multiple parking options at once.Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company
“Customers want connected vehicle technologies to work more like smartphones with real-time, personalized services – and that is exactly what SYNC 4 offers, including INRIX’s parking and fuel price innovations,” said Gary Jablonski, manager, Ford Connected Vehicle Infotainment Systems. “For example, many F-150 customers drive from job to job in new areas where we can help guide them to gas stations and parking spots closest to them, or perhaps a bit further if they are looking for cheaper options.”
INRIX launched the industry’s first dynamic off-street parking service in 2013, followed by the first integrated on-street parking solution in June 2015.
“Since 2008, INRIX has played an important role bringing connected services to Ford SYNC drivers,” said Bryan Mistele, president and CEO of INRIX. “These services are no longer just a selling point but a requirement – real-time information like traffic, parking and fuel play a critical role in the entire driving experience.”
SYNC 4 will first appear in the company’s redesigned F-150, new Mustang Mach-E, and new two- and four-door Bronco models With navigation The F-150 will be the first of those models to market, arriving this autumn.
