Ford debuts FordPass connectivity suite

FORD Australia has announced its mechanically related T6 Ranger pick-up and Everest large SUV will become the first local vehicles to benefit from the fitment of its FordPass Connect modem, which will allow for greater functionality and the use of remote services.

Set to arrive locally in mid-2020, the FordPass Connect system is used in conjunction with the brand’s FordPass smartphone app to allow the use of features such as remote vehicle lock/unlock, remote vehicle monitoring including checking fuel level, tyre pressure and other factors, remote vehicle start and stop, live traffic updates, vehicle locator and vehicle health alerts.

Vehicle health alerts can pre-empt servicing needs and general maintenance such as  bulb replacements, with alerts able to be sent directly to the owner’s smartphone.

Ford is claiming the Ranger is now the first pick-up in the country to offer standard connectivity across the range, with the new technology to be fitted on every model as well as the entire Everest line-up.

The new technology will also allow owners to access roadside assistance, schedule a service online, check their recent service history or owner’s manual, or speak with a guide who can assist with queries about the connected services via either phone or email.

FordPass Connect uses a SIM card that connects to the internet, which allows for real-time vehicle status and traffic updates.

Ford Australia president and CEO Kay Hart said that the new technology will be rolled out across other Ford models throughout the year.

“FordPass Connect will be rolled out across the Ford showroom in 2020, as we bring the technology to all vehicle types, across all models and all price points,” she said.

“We want every Australian to be able to benefit from this great connected technology.”

More details specific to the Australian market will be revealed when the technology is rolled out across the two model lines mid-year.

The Ranger finished 2019 as the best-selling 4x4 pick-up in Australia with 37,004 units – a 0.3 per cent year-on-year increase – narrowly outselling the Toyota HiLux which netted 36,325 4x4 sales.

Meanwhile Everest sales dipped 2.7 per cent to 5333 units, making it the third-best-selling ute-based large SUV behind the Isuzu MU-X (8419) and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport (6477), but ahead of the Toyota Fortuner (3033) and Holden Trailblazer (2813).