Microsoft and Ford teams up

Microsoft Corp. is not just making a mark in computer technology, now it is also taking an interest in cars.

Just recently, news has come out that the world's biggest software maker is partnering with Ford Motor Co. to produce Sync, which is “a technology platform that uses voice commands and Bluetooth wireless technology to give users voice-activated control of their cellphones and portable music players.”


Sync is available as an optional feature in 12 Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury models for just $400.

"This is not a new technology," said Ford spokesman Mark Schirmer. "I think what we're bringing to the party is wider availability, more affordability, and the fact that you can buy it in a Ford Focus."

With an electronics module designed by Continental AG of Germany, Ford Sync will be running on Microsoft's Windows operating system especially designed for cars. Nuance Communications Inc., of Burlington also included voice-recognition software. Aside from a Bluetooth radio system, a USB connector will also be included to be able to plug in numerous devices.

Although there will be a limited numbers of cellphones with Bluetooth connectivity that will be compatible to the Ford Sync, Microsoft senior product manager Velle Kolde said that the list of compatible phones are growing. "If you have a Bluetooth-enabled phone, pretty good chance it's just going to work," Kolde said.

Along with the convenience of voice-recognition, the Sync can let motorists download software upgrades over the Internet and use a USB device to add the new software to their cars. This will help motorists get the latest upgrades as well as allow “Microsoft to fix bugs, install new features, and permit compatibility with future digital devices.”

The Sync is catering to a different need if compared with GM's OnStar system. OnStar is for added safety and security while Sync is primarily for entertainment."There's not a lot to compare" with Sync, said Nick Pudar, OnStar's vice president of planning and business development. "They're apples and oranges."

Source: http://www.boston.com/business/technology/articles/2007/11/12/microsoft_ford_team_up_on_voice_controls_for_drivers/

The new Ford Focus ST

Official reports have come out about the new Ford Focus ST. Auto Express recently reported that the revised Focus will be available in the UK on January and the ST on March.



According to the report, exterior modifications are very noticeable such as Mondeo-style headlamps, honeycomb grille and a front bumper with integrated foglamps. The rear also witnessed some changes with a revised tailgate and a new diffuser-style bumper for better high-speed stability.

Changes were also done inside with new features and modified controls in ventilation and stereo. Optional features are the keyless entry and a ‘Power’ button on the center console to start and stop the engine.

The new Focus will receive the same 2.5-litre turbocharged engine of the previous model, which can go to 0-60mph in only 6.5 seconds.

Ford trucks are the top choice at the 2007 Texas Auto Writers Truck Rodeo

Just recently, reports have come out that Ford trucks and crossover have once again gain recognition as it earned gold at the 2007 Texas Auto Writers Truck Rodeo.

Ford vehicles such as the Lincoln, Mercury and the Ford Harley-Davidson F-250 Super Duty, which was dubbed as "Truck of Texas" and best Heavy Duty Pickup Truck, were given special honors.

"It is a tremendous honor to have the Texas Auto Writers Association recognize a Ford F-Series truck as 'Truck of Texas' for a fifth straight year and a Super Duty for the last three years," said Mike Crowley, Ford truck and SUV group marketing manager. "It's clear that Ford F-Series trucks are king in Texas."

For Harold Gunn, president of Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA), this award is very significant since Texas is known to be the largest truck market. "We use trucks a lot, and we drive a lot of miles in them, and it's clear that Ford 'gets' that," said Gunn.

As one of the largest associations of auto writers in the U.S, TAWA was able to attract 66 vehicles in the rodeo and be judged by 48 registered TAWA media.

Meanwhile, the Lincoln Mark LT was awarded as the best Luxury Pickup Truck while the Mercury Mariner Hybrid FWD being the Compact Sport Utility class. The Ford Edge, on the other hand, won in TAWA’s classes for Compact Utility Crossover and the Lincoln MKX won their classes for Luxury Crossover Utility.

Aside from the vehicle themselves, Ford innovations were also recognized in the event. These are the tailgate step on the F-250 and the Ford SYNC, which is the voice-activated, hands-free, in-car connectivity system for mobile phones and digital media players.

Winners were judged on a course specifically designed for suspension testing, at the Oak Hill M/X Raceway in Decatur, Texas.

"We were going over hills, moguls, ruts, washboards, everything you could come across in regular truck driving," said Gunn. "You should be pretty happy with how you did."

Source: http://www.carbuyersnotebook.com/archives/2007/11/ford_trucks_take_gold_at.htm