Connectivity helps drivers be safe, reclaim drive time

The San Francisco Chronicle 59th annual International Auto Show will feature vehicles with the latest technology to connect drivers with their other electronic devices, making their time behind the wheel more productive.

Ford’s mantra has been, “Keep Your Eyes On the Road and Your Hands On the Wheel,” since 2007 when the company introduced SYNC, a voice activated, factory-installed, integrated communications and entertainment system.

In-vehicle infotainment is an automobile industry term for vehicle systems that combine entertainment with information for drivers and passengers.

Android Auto works with SYNC3 to connect drivers with Google and interact with their smartphone to perform virtually the same functions as AppleCarPlay, except voice-guided navigation, live traffic information and estimated travel time is provided by Google Maps.

Owners of a SYNC Connect-equipped vehicle, can use FordPass to track their vehicle’s location and remotely access vehicle features such as start, lock and unlock and vehicle status, including fuel level and approximate mileage, a comfort for some parents.

Drivers of the plug-in can plan their next night out using the available Entune App Suite or the navigator to get them there with just a tap, according to Nathan Kokes, Advanced Technology Vehicle Marketing Manager.

“Prius Prime’s available 11.6-inch high definition multimedia display operates with tap and swipe gestures that create a familiar smart phone-like experience while giving drivers easy access to features that matter most,” Kokes said.

Kokes affirmed that the plug-in also can schedule charging for off-peak hours to help reduce electricity costs and do the environment a favor by supporting efficient grid usage in the owner’s community.

GM lays claim to starting the connected car revolution 20 years ago with the launch of OnStar, to which it has added new technology to create personalized service for its customers.

In October, GM and IBM announced a partnership that will deliver personalized content through the dashboard and other digital channels to make the most of time spent in the vehicle.

By leveraging OnStar’s connectivity and combining it with the power of Watson, we’re looking to provide safer, simpler and better solutions to make our customers’ mobility experience more valuable and productive.