Ford expands use of in car technology

Ford has outlined plans to further develop the use of new technology in its cars.

The car maker will extend its software application SYNC AppLink, which gives users hands-free voice control capability of smartphone apps, to 10 new vehicles that will be launched in 2012.

In addition, it willl increase the number of staff working on in-car technology fourfold over the next four years.

Ford said that the SYNC app developer community now has 2,500 developers working to create apps for Ford vehicles.

"More and more drivers are using their devices and their apps while in the car," said Doug VanDagens, director of Ford connected services solutions.

"Ford is offering voice-activated options such as Ford SYNC with AppLink on a broader range of our products, which gives more customers a smarter way to access their apps while driving that keeps their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road."

The AppLink-equipped vehicles to be launched in 2012 are the Ford Fusion, Fusion Hybrid, Fiesta, F-150, F-150 SVT Raptor, Super Duty, Expedition, E-Series, Shelby GT500 and the 2012 Ford Mustang.