Archive for the ‘Ford Motor Company’ Category

At the 2001 Detroit auto show, Ford debuted some intriguing technology: airbag-enabled seat belts. After years of additional testing and refinement, it appears that the devices are finally ready for prime time. They'll soon be available as an option on next-gen Ford Explorers; afterward, they'll debut in Europe and other markets. While we're waiting for news about their appearance on other Ford vehicles in the U.S., there's a short video about the belts below. Pretty nifty stuff.

[Freep]

Over the past couple of weeks, we've mentioned several systems that bring home computer-like services to automobiles. We've discussed proprietary systems like Ford's Microsoft Sync and its rumored Hyundai rival, and, at the other end of the spectrum, in-car routers that function as "dumb pipes", bringing Wi-Fi to laptops and other web-enabled devices. Just yesterday, we wondered aloud when this technology would merge and simplify, shifting from static systems to something more like the internet computing we know and love: customizable, flexible, and adaptable to the diverse needs of drivers.

We're not there yet, but we're happy to  report...

Rumor has it that Hyundai is working on its own telematics system to rival GM's OnStar and Ford's Microsoft Sync. The news comes via a memo from Hyundai's manager of brand strategy, wherein he asks members of a focus group to help name the new product. Apparently, the system will have four  major focuses, including safety/security, news/entertainment, navigation, and diagnostics. Of the names suggested so far -- including "Fuse" and "Emerge" -- none really stand out, but then, we weren't asked.

If true, this is an intriguing bit of news for Hyundai, which is riding a wave of positive press these days. However, we have to wonder where the...