Ford drivers get in SYNC with Google Maps

by Stevie Smith - Jun 9 2010, 04:25

Google’s global dominance inches ever closer this week following news that the Ford Motor Company is to increase the functionality of its in-car navigation services by embracing Google Maps.

Specifically aimed at Ford, Lincoln and Mercury drivers that favour Ford’s SYNC with Traffic, Directions & Information (SYNC TDI) platform, Google Maps will be made available via integration through the cloud-based ‘Send to SYNC’ feature – which will launch before the close of June.

“Printing paper directions from a website is a relic in our digital age,” said Doug VanDagens, director of Ford Connected Services Solutions Organization. “With Send to SYNC, you can map a destination at home, at work – wherever you have connectivity – and when you get to your car, it already knows where you want to go.”

“It’s convenient and it eliminates the waste and distraction of paper maps, conserving resources while helping drivers keep their eyes on the road,” he added.

So, how does Send to SYNC work alongside Google Maps? Well, drivers simply select and download destination information into their vehicle via a Bluetooth-enabled mobile device, at which point the information is processed into audible turn-by-turn directions.

When users visit Google Maps online to find locations, they will have the option to send a selected destination to their vehicle via a “send” menu on the site. Then, when physically inside their vehicle, the driver need only connect to SYNC TDI by using the “Services” voice command and confirm the destination download request when prompted.

Interested drivers will be glad to learn that existing and compatible 2010-11 vehicles equipped with SYNC TDI will require the installation of no extra hardware or software updates. Ford is currently the only vehicle manufacturer offering this level of functionality without attaching it to a paid subscription or telematics service.

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