Alpine is bringing it on with a slew of new head units for your vehicle. From the Double-DIN Audio/Video/Navigation (AVN) INE-Z928HD that features built-in Bluetooth, GPS, HD Radio, and full Pandora control connected to your iPhone, Android, or BlackBerry to the premium CD CDE-HD138BT receiver that allows ease of system building with its 4 Volt pre-amp outputs, to the advanced Bluetooth CD receiver CDE-W235BT that will add some pazazz to your OEM stereo yet look at home in your 2-DIN chassis, you already have some great choices before you. The slew of Spring scheduled audio marvels will appear between February (ya, I know, not really spring) to June. Alpine will also be showcasing its Perfect FIT Kits helping you slide your INE-Z928HD into your car without cutting up your fingers and making you wish you hadn’t taken on the job of installation yourself.

It’s great to see Alpine finally give you the Bluetooth instead of requiring an additional purchase and its inclusion of such technologies as Pandora shows that Alpine is getting the next-generation of music. Thumbs up to that, boys!

Full read and deets in the press release below.

View Press Release »

SuperTooth was assteemed the Car Accessory of the Year award by iLounge for it’s SuperTooth HD Bluetooth hands-free device. As reported here on SvenOnTech, the HD unit has superb sound and amazing staying power with its 20 hours of talk-time and up to 1,000 hours of standby. The visor mounted HD stays out of your way and points the speaker toward your ears. All around, good stuff and iLounge agrees.

View Press Release »

My favorite electric vehicle manufacturer has teamed up with one of my favorite electronics company. Panasonic will supply Elon Musk and his company, Tesla Motors, with automotive-grade lithium-ion battery cells to power the upcoming Tesla S sedan and future models. This agreement will help Tesla meet its 6,000 Tesla S ramp-up it received in reservations alone. Additionally, Panasonic has made a $30 million investment into Tesla.

I can’t wait to see one of these cars and hopefully own one someday. More deets below.

View Press Release »

GPS has become a tough market to separate yourself from the competition since Apple introduced applications for its widely successful iPhone platform. NAVIGON has given the traveling public Traffic Live, ZAGAT Survey, and Panorama View 3D in hopes to attract the attention of others. Today, it brings some reality to your screen as in the form of augmented reality. According to NAVIGON, MobileNavigator’s augmented reality on your iPhone, “helps find points of interest close-by, presenting them in an augmented reality view.” In other words, the burger joint will be floating to the left on your screen and the ribs joint on the right in its near vicinity to you. This basically means, POIs (points of interest) are going to stick out like a sore thumb thus finding them easier.

Also added to the 1.8 release will be Safety Cameras or as we like to call them here in the States, easy money for the city.

Get the rest of the deets below.

Press Release
NAVIGON AG, a leading provider of mobile phone on-board navigation, today announced the availability of the eighth update for its iPhone app, MobileNavigator, the most feature-rich navigation solution on the iOS platform. The update adds a Reality Scanner feature that helps finding points of interest close-by, presenting them in an augmented reality view. Version 1.8 also includes safety camera alerts as an In App Purchase, an at-a-glance traffic gage and a new NAVTEQ map. In conjunction with the update launch, MobileNavigator apps and In App Purchase prices will be reduced by up to $15 thru April 28, 2011.

“In its eighth version, MobileNavigator delivered over 30 new features since our launch almost two years ago, helping drivers navigate stress-free through even some of the most challenging situations on the road.” said Gerhard Mayr, vice-president worldwide mobile phone business, NAVIGON. “MobileNavigator not only provides accurate directions but acts as a travel assistant with many industry first features. The new Reality Scanner function provides an innovative way of displaying points of interest close-by. Instead of showing them on the map, the feature projects them onto a real-time camera view.”

MobileNavigator 1.8 New Features:

Reality Scanner is a navigation industry first augmented reality feature for the iOS platform, providing an instant and effortless way of identifying destinations close-by. Users simply point the iPhone in any direction from where they are and instantly points of interest icons appear directly onto a live camera view, indicating the exact position of the location. Pedestrians won’t miss a beat while they are on foot, in a couple of taps destination such as restaurants, bars, hotels, and more are at their fingertips. Reality Scanner provides this information immediately, providing a quick overview of the immediate surroundings.

Safety Cameras alert drivers of upcoming static speed and red light cameras along the route, helping to potentially avoid costly tickets. The feature integrates the database from the industry’s number one safety camera detection company, RoadTraps. This database provides access to over 3900 speed and red light cameras in the US and is regularly updated to ensure the latest cameras are detected. NAVIGON Safety Cameras is available as a single In App Purchase of $4.99.

Traffic Check is an easy to read, at-a-glance gage graphic that appears after route calculation and inform drivers of current traffic conditions. The Traffic gage pop-up informs with a green, yellow, and red meter and disappears within a few seconds, indicating how the traffic situation is on the route ahead. If more detailed traffic coverage and alternate routes are needed for users who are not already using the built-in Traffic Live feature, a direct link to the In App Purchase is provided within the graphic. By tapping the “i”, the meter will flip directly to the apps extra menu where the In App Purchase can be made.

The Latest Maps by the leading map provider NAVTEQ.

Future Version Benefits NAVIGON is currently working on some major additions for MobileNavigator and only those who have this latest version are eligible to take advantage of the benefits in the next version.

MobileNavigator transforms the iPhone and iPad 3G into a comprehensive navigation device, comparable to standalone units. The app helps drivers to arrive stress-free and on time with
spoken directions and a unique combination of advanced driving guidance. Features include lane assistance, traffic rerouting, parking options, safety camera alerts, weather information
and much more. By providing directions even in areas without a cell or wireless signal, and the latest NAVTEQ maps saved on the phone, the app always has you covered. It is the most
feature rich on-board navigation application and a top-grossing app several times in 29 different App Stores around the globe.

Pricing and Availability
NAVIGON’s North American apps and selected In App Purchases are up to $15 off until April 28, 2011. The promotional offerings are below next to the regular prices.

Applications
MobileNavigator North America: $44.99 instead of $59.99
MobileNavigator USA: $34.99 instead of $49.99
MobileNavigator Canada: $34.99 instead of $59.99
MobileNavigator US MyRegion East, Central or West: $24.99 instead of $29.99, additional regions $12.99 instead of $14.99.

In App Purchases
Safety Cameras: $4.99
Traffic Live: $14.99 instead of $19.99
ZAGAT Survey® Ratings and Reviews: $7.99
Panorama View 3D: $9.99

Accessories
NAVIGON Design Car Kit for iPhone: $44.95 instead of $49.95, available at BringMobi.com

MobileNavigator 1.8.0 is compatible with iPhone 4, 3GS, 3G iPad 3G and iPad 2 3G. The app also runs on first generation iPhone and iPod Touch, but third party accessories for GPS reception are required for these devices. *iOS multitasking is supported by the iPhone 4 and 3GS only.

For more information, please visit: www.navigon.com/iphone.

Ford has finally responded to GMs mobile application suite due to be available for every 2011 GM vehicle with MyFord Mobile. Like GMs offering, Ford owners will have access to unlock or lock their doors, checking the charging status of the batteries (if you have such items in your Ford,) and unlike GM, the addition of MapQuest giving you access to the nearest gas station. Unlike GM, Ford has decided to go the universal way and make the app a Web App to allow greater access among all devices. While I give Ford kudos for implementing HTML5 for its Web App (WAP 2.0 will also be available for dumb phones,) one only has to look at the iPhone as an example of how well that works. During its first year run, the iPhone with Web Apps barely made a blip on the handheld as many were frustrated with the slow displaying graphics and constant wait with each link tapped. Once Steve Jobs announced native applications for the iPhone, the developer community rejoiced and today we have the most successful app store and a new revolution in smartphones. GM went with the revolution and Ford went with frustration. That’s disappointing. Maybe it will make a change when countless calls of disgruntled users voice their mayhem or when it reads the marketing reports showing more consumers purchasing GMs because it had an iPhone app.

That said, enjoy the press release!

Electric vehicle owners can plug in and walk away from their vehicles while staying connected, thanks to the new MyFord Mobile app being introduced exclusively with the all-new Ford Focus Electric.

The unique new MyFord Mobile technology provides Focus Electric owners in North America with a powerful tool to stay connected, monitor and control their vehicle. Via a smartphone or a secure website, MyFord Mobile allows Focus Electric owners to plan trips, monitor the vehicle’s state of charge, receive various alerts for vehicle charging, as well as provides several other features designed to simplify the electric vehicle ownership experience.

It is part of the innovative Ford approach to understand that electric vehicle customers want to be informed and in control of their vehicle at all times, especially while away from the vehicle.

The technology builds on Ford’s connectivity leadership and is part of a complete suite of tools designed to give Focus Electric vehicle owners peace of mind through constant connectivity, helping strengthen the unique EV ownership experience.

“We’re putting battery charge and vehicle range information, along with an interactive, data-driven trip planning app right at customers’ fingertips,” said Ed Pleet, Ford Connected Services manager. “That’s going to get drivers involved and excited about the electric car ownership experience.”

MyFord Mobile uses an on-board wireless module integrated into Focus Electric that allows the car to communicate off-board via standard cellular technology. Owners can use any connected mobile phone with a data plan or computer with Internet access when not operating a vehicle to:

* Find current and projected state of charge information including estimated range and the amount of charge time necessary for additional distances
* Program vehicle charging with utility input, allowing the car to start charging immediately or when electricity prices are lowest with the value charging feature, powered by Microsoft
* Using features powered by MapQuest®
o Locate charging stations and get the destination sent to the vehicle
o Know if the vehicle can reach a specific charge station from its current location with the current charge level
o Create a journey with multiple stops, and determine the likelihood that the car has adequate charge for the full journey
o Find the car by creating a route from a mobile phone to the vehicle
* Receive alerts if the vehicle isn’t charging when it’s scheduled to, or if charging stops unexpectedly due to a power outage, plug removal or other event
* Receive alerts during recharge when the vehicle has reached a particular preset charge level or has the ability to reach a particular destination
* Engage remote vehicle preconditioning, using grid power to heat or cool the battery and vehicle interior
* Remotely lock/unlock doors
* Use the built-in GPS system to locate the car
* Download performance and system data
* Receive various achievements for driving and ownership milestones that can then be posted to your Facebook or Twitter account
* Fun ways of understanding your driver behavior, with ratings from ‘Zen’ to ‘zippy’
* Receive information personalized to the driver, depending on which key the driver used

How the system works
At launch, the MyFord Mobile app will be available for most major smartphones, including BlackBerry, Android and iPhone, along with a mobile web application for compatibility with any phone supporting HTML-5 browser-based access, or features phones with WAP 2.0-supported browsers. The feature also is accessible via a secure Ford website.

Owners will use the smartphone to communicate with a cloud-based secure server, which stores information provided by an embedded wireless module in Focus Electric. Using a cloud-based architecture ensures users will have up-to-the-minute access to information anywhere both they and the vehicle have connectivity.

Key component in the electric vehicle ownership experience
MyFord Mobile is a primary feature in the suite of tools Focus Electric owners in North America will have to help them manage the recharge process and involve them engagingly.

They will engage with a version of MyFord Touch™, the Ford driver connect technology, which is being introduced across the all-new Focus family, designed exclusively for electric vehicle owners. The MyFord Touch system in Focus Electric adds an impressive layer of electric vehicle operation information on top of the broader MyFord Touch functionality.

The unique implementation of MyFord Touch offers configurability of vehicle information including battery state of charge, range budget, distance to charge point and expected range surplus. The cluster’s MyView option allows drivers to access even more vehicle data such as the electrical demands of vehicle accessories including air conditioning, which can impact driving range.

Working with the charge station manufacturers and MapQuest, Ford will provide Focus Electric owners with the most current, comprehensive charging station information in the country. That information is accessed via MyFord Mobile and can then be communicated to Focus Electric using SYNC’s Traffic, Directions and Information Service (TDI) when the vehicle is stationary.

Once SYNC TDI receives a charging station location from MyFord Mobile, turn-by-turn guidance is provided by the in-car map-based Navigation System. In the vehicle, drivers also can get charging station information directly through SYNC TDI simply by connecting to SYNC Services using voice commands.

Additional elements of the ownership experience include a new value charging feature powered by Microsoft that lowers cost of ownership by allowing customers to recharge their vehicles at off-peak or at other reduced rates from their utility through an uncomplicated “set it and forget it” approach.

“Ford recognizes the electric vehicle ownership experience is going to be new for just about everyone,” said Pleet. “Our goal is not just to provide the most practical, enjoyable electric car on the market, but also to give drivers the information, applications and resources they need to feel confident about choosing fun, environmentally conscious transportation.”

XtremeMac, a leading designer and manufacturer of accessories and audio solutions for Apple devices, is pleased to announce four new additions to its popular InCharge™ series during CES. The InCharge series are designed to keep your iPod, iPhone and iPad charged and playing at home and on the go. The new introductions are the InCharge Mobile, Auto USB, Auto Plus and Auto AUX.

InCharge Mobile is a low profile, sleek rechargeable battery pack and protective case. It boasts one of the largest battery capacities for iPhone 4 chargers on the market at 2300 mAh, the equivalent of one full charge. Features include an integrated stand for landscape viewing and FaceTime chatting, LED battery status indicator, on/off switch for battery conservation and a micro USB cable for charging and syncing.

The three new InCharge Auto solutions for the car each offer a compact design, deliver 10 watts of power, and provide a distinguishing feature for added functionality. The InCharge Auto USB is equipped with a detachable USB to 30 Pin cable for charging and syncing Apple products. The InCharge Auto Plus provides users with a second USB port to simultaneously charge an iPhone, iPod or iPad and another USB powered device. Finally, the InCharge Auto AUX features a 3.5mm auxiliary jack and cable allowing users to play music through their car stereo line input while charging an iPhone, iPod or iPad, replacing the need for an FM transmitter.

InCharge Mobile, Auto USB, Auto Plus and Auto AUX are available now for US$79.99, US$24.99, US$29.99 and US$49.99 MSRP respectively. These new chargers are available at www.XtremeMac.com.

Magellan, a pioneering GPS brand, today announced new features being added to its successful RoadMate® product lineup of car Navigation units that will enhance driver safety and enable easier viewing.

The new Magellan RoadMate 9055 GPS is a feature-rich navigation device designed for easy viewing that further expands Magellan’s successful 7-inch car Navigation product line. The RoadMate 9055 is the first of a select group of Magellan GPS units that will support a new, proprietary Magellan back-up camera scheduled for release this spring. The unit’s large, high-definition screen transmits a live feed from the vehicle’s bumper when the car is placed in reverse gear. Children and pets behind the vehicle car are now visible and can be avoided, helping make the road safer for both the driver and pedestrians.

Designed with drivers of RVs, SUVs, minivans and other larger-cab vehicles in mind, the RoadMate 9055 GPS also includes three features most requested by consumers: a high-definition WVGA screen, Bluetooth connectivity to mobile devices, and a lifetime traffic subscription that alerts drivers of congestion ahead and calculates alternative routes.

The RoadMate 9055 GPS’s large, 7-inch screen offers the user the same viewing area as most in-dash car navigation units for a crisp, clear view of the screen. Bluetooth connectivity enables hands-free operation of mobile phones, helping drivers to communicate safely while driving. Magellan’s Free, Lifetime Traffic Feature, feeds continual updates of traffic conditions in traffic-congested North American cities directly to the GPS unit. The driver is provided with an accurate estimate of travel times factoring in distance and traffic, as well as suggestions for less-congested alternative routes.

Why RoadMate Is The Ideal Road Mate

Preloaded with maps of the 50 United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico and more than 6 million points of interest locations, all Magellan RoadMate models features exclusive rich content from the most trusted name in driver safety, AAA. The built-in AAA TourBook guide with Diamond ratings and descriptions for US and Canada provides highly detailed information about hotels, restaurants local attractions, and a guide to merchants offering member discounts. A special AAA roadside assistance feature (for AAA members only) gives you your exact location with a touch of a button so you can get the roadside help you need quickly and easily.

The RoadMate 9055 includes Highway Lane Assist which guides the driver into the proper lane for upcoming lane changes and exits, as well as Magellan’s proprietary OneTouch user interface providing users instant access to favorite addresses, searches and destinations. The GPS unit also features text-to-speech technology, which provides spoken street names while navigating; and a convenient Video-In jack, which can be used to connect an iPod®, back-up camera or other video source to watch live video on the bright 7-inch display (cable not included).

“We developed our large-screen navigation devices to help people get more information they need at a quick glance. Between our high-definition widescreens, our hands-free calling features, the quality of the AAA TourBook content and assurance of roadside assistance for its members, and the forthcoming back-up camera accessory, our RoadMate devices not only navigate drivers to their destinations, they make each journey safer,” said Mike Wagner, Senior Director of Product Marketing, Magellan.

The RoadMate 9055 comes with a specialized heavy-duty Extension Mount that brings the GPS navigator up close and personal. With three points of articulation and an extra 12 inches of extension, no cab is too large to maneuver the display within easy reach. The specialized multi-surface mounting pad will also stick directly to vinyl dashboards, safely securing the device and avoiding the long reach to the windshield. Drivers in smaller vehicles will appreciate the ability to bring the Magellan RoadMate 9055 GPS below dash level so that windshield space is not taken up.

The Magellan RoadMate 9055 GPS is now available at Amazon. It includes the extension mount and cradle, vehicle power adapter, and USB data cord. The unit retails at a MSRP for $299.99.

For optional accessories, including cases, pouches and additional mounting options, visit http://www.magellangps.com.

Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation, today announced its first turn-by-turn navigation app for iPhone, StreetPilot, as well as its full lineup of new smartphone applications for both iPhone and Android. Garmin’s new mobile applications — including StreetPilot for iPhone, Garmin Tracker, myMechanic, and My-Cast Lite — will be on display in the Garmin booth (South Hall #35831) at the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

“Providing consumers with mobile applications is yet another way they can experience the benefits of Garmin – be it our navigation expertise or bringing the capabilities of our niche market products to a smartphone. GPS is an extremely helpful tool, but we recognize it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. We decided to introduce a new line of smartphone applications so that we can give customers a quality Garmin experience in the format of their choosing,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin’s vice president of worldwide sales.
The StreetPilot® App: Designed specifically for iPhone, the StreetPilot App gives iPhone owners unlimited use of Garmin’s industry-leading navigation with traffic alerts. The intuitive interface greets users with two simple options: “Where to?” and “View Map.” Customers can easily look up addresses and services and get voice-prompted, turn-by-turn directions that speak street names to their destination.

The StreetPilot App includes many of the same high-end features available on Garmin’s standalone automotive GPS devices like free traffic alerts that enable drivers to steer clear of traffic accidents, road closures and construction; lane assist with junction view that directs drivers to the preferred lane and displays realistic images of upcoming complex junctions; and speed limit indicators that display speed limits for most major roads. It is an off-board navigation system so that customers always have the advantage of the most up-to-date mapping information available.

The StreetPilot App also integrates with a driver’s iTunes music library so they can access and control their music while on the move; integrates with their address book so they can navigate directly from their contact list; and uses the multitasking ability of iOS 4 to allow them to take a phone call while the navigation continues to work in the background.

The StreetPilot App is available now for $39.99 from the App Store on iPhone or at www.itunes.com/appstore. ]]> http://svenontech.com/2011/01/04/garmin-ups-tomtom-with-turn-by-turn-gps-for-the-iphone-with-streetpilot-release/feed/ 0 http://svenontech.com/2010/12/29/easy-to-install-aftermarket-automotive-intelligence-system-offers-drivers-a-customizable-way-to-monitor-and-socially-connect-without-monthly-fees/ http://svenontech.com/2010/12/29/easy-to-install-aftermarket-automotive-intelligence-system-offers-drivers-a-customizable-way-to-monitor-and-socially-connect-without-monthly-fees/#comments Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:40:43 +0000 Sven Rafferty http://svenontech.com/?p=8946

Mavizon Technologies, a mobile technologies startup dedicated to improving and simplifying the on-the-go experience, dominated at this year’s highly anticipated CEA i-Stage competition, taking home Overall Winner and Fan Favorite for its innovative flagship device, Mavia™.

Status & Location
In less than five minutes, this easy-to-install aftermarket automotive intelligence system offers drivers a smarter, user-friendly way to integrate their cars with their busy mobile lifestyles. With this one unit, consumers can find lost or stolen cars, detect automotive maintenance needs and get access to automatic emergency response with the ability to let friends/family know when accidents happen – all without monthly fees.

Social Media Integration
Plus, with the popularity of social media check-ins and online communication, this handy tool can be customized to use its GPS capabilities to offer drivers an automatic way to stay in touch with their friends.

Diagnostics and Automotive Maintenance Needs
Since it plugs conveniently into the on-board diagnostic port (OBD-II) of most cars (1996 and newer), Mavia™ knows when you need an oil change, tires rotated and more. It can remind you of scheduled maintenance and offer special Groupon-like discounts based on these specific automotive maintenance needs and your location.

Stay Connected All the Time
Once connected, drivers can easily create an account at the dedicated Mavia page through the Mavizon Technologies site. After a few simple questions about the car, the device automatically syncs to Mavizon’s cloud-based system to allow users to access all pertinent information via a free Smartphone app or through the company’s web site. This affordable aftermarket system operates on 3G – not Bluetooth or Wi-Fi – so it’s always on and never uses up valuable cell phone minutes.

“We know what consumers want, and what they don’t. That’s why we created the connected car made simple for everyone,” said Mavizon Technologies Partner, Madison Hamman. “Mavia™ provides a smarter, all-in-one solution to keep drivers safe, secure and socially connected on the road.”

Mavia™ will be available mid-2011 for less than $300 – no monthly fees. For more information, visit www.mavizontech.com.

Ford Motor Company is preparing to debut a new version of its breakthrough MyKey® technology that – for the first time – will allow parents to block explicit satellite radio content in the vehicle, much like parents are able to prevent children from viewing certain types of television and Internet content.
The new feature will debut next year as standard equipment on the Ford Taurus and Ford Explorer, and will eventually be available across a variety of Ford and Lincoln vehicles. MyKey – designed to help parents encourage safe teen driving habits – is an easily programmable key that can limit a vehicle’s top speed, limit radio volume and encourage safety-belt usage by muting the radio until front occupants buckle up.
The radio-blocking feature works by screening out all programs labeled by Sirius® Satellite Radio as “explicit.” While similar technology is used for blocking inappropriate content on televisions and computers, never before has such an option been available for radio programming in vehicles.
Among the 16 stations MyKey will be able to block: Howard Stern stations, Playboy Radio, Liquid Metal, Hip Hop Nation, Hardcore Sports Radio, Maxim Radio, Blue Collar Radio, Raw Dog Comedy and VIRUS.
Ford’s current MyKey system – standard on most North American vehicles after launching in summer 2009 – allows owners to program a key that can limit the vehicle’s top speed to 80 mph, with chimes sounding at 45, 55 and 65 mph. The upgraded MyKey technology will now allow parents to limit a vehicle’s top speed at any of four different settings – 65, 70, 75 or 80 mph.
“Ford wants to give parents peace of mind that their kids are following practical household rules in the car,” says Graydon Reitz, director, Ford Electrical and Electronic Systems Engineering. “Parents obviously like this type of feature, and many teens are okay with it when they hear parents may give them the keys more often if the car comes with a technology such as Ford’s MyKey.”
In a poll conducted for Ford by Penn, Schoen & Berland, nearly 60 percent of parents of teen drivers said the new MyKey feature that allows for blocking explicit radio content is an important technology. The survey also indicated that 85 percent of parents with teen drivers find the speed-limiting feature important.
The additional top-speed limits available in the next generation of MyKey will help parents set appropriate limits as their teens transition from driving in town to traveling on the highway. Additional features already available on MyKey limit audio volume, encourage safety-belt usage by muting the radio until front occupants buckle up, and provide earlier low-fuel warnings.
In the poll, more than half of parents also said they would allow their teens to use the family vehicle more often if it were equipped with MyKey. Meanwhile, 45 percent of teens surveyed would approve of MyKey restrictions if it meant the possibility of additional driving privileges.

Tuning into teen safety
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, teens are more likely to take risks such as speeding – a contributing factor in 30 percent of all fatal crashes. Teens also are less likely to wear safety belts than older drivers.

“Like graduated licensing laws, MyKey helps parents set reasonable limits for teens as they’re building driving skills,” Reitz said. “We developed MyKey’s functions in such a way as to quickly spread it across multiple vehicle lines, giving us the ability to go mass market in the spirit of other Ford innovations such as SYNC®.”
Holding the key
MyKey allows the parent to program any key through the intuitive MyFord Touch™ interface. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the system reads the transponder chip in the key and immediately identifies the MyKey code, which enables certain default driving modes, including:
· Persistent Ford Belt-Minder® with audio mute. Ford’s Belt-Minder system typically provides a six-second reminder chime every minute for five minutes. With MyKey, the Belt-Minder chime continues at the regular interval and the audio system is muted until the safety belt is buckled. A message center display, “Buckle Up to Unmute Radio,” also appears on the instrument cluster

· Earlier low-fuel warning. Rather than a warning at 50 miles to empty, MyKey provides a warning at 75 miles to empty

· If MyKey is in the ignition, features such as park aid and BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert cannot be deactivated

Additional MyKey features that can be programmed through the vehicle’s MyFord Touch menu:
· Parental control of explicit radio programming
· Limited top speed of 65, 70, 75 or 80 mph
· Traction control system, which limits tire spin, cannot be deactivated
· Limited audio volume to 44 percent of maximum
· A speed alert chime at 45, 55 or 65 mph
Using MyKey to encourage teens to avoid speeding can provide an added benefit – improved fuel economy. Ford research shows that driving 55 mph instead of 65 mph consumes 15 percent less fuel, and mastering other eco-driving habits, such as avoiding jackrabbit starts and excessive idling, can help improve fuel economy by more than 50 percent.