Ford has unveiled a new digital driving experience for its Ford and Lincoln car brands, merging the infotainment system and the instrument cluster into the same computing module powered by Android and Google. Notably, the system also supports Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa. Ford aims to deliver a human-centred interface, faster updates, and access to third-party apps and games, particularly when the vehicle is parked.
The new digital experience serves as a 3-in-1 platform, with the primary Ford experience based on Android (formerly known as “Android Automotive” and now referred to as “Google built-in”). Ford collaborated with Google to fine-tune the experience, making it suitable for the central console and a sweeping 48-inch panoramic display. Users can download and update individual apps through the Play Store directly from the car’s console.
The system supports both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, providing users with flexibility in choosing their operating system. Additionally, it accommodates three different voice assistants – Google Assistant (default), Apple’s Siri, and Amazon’s Alexa, the latter capable of controlling in-car functions like adjusting the temperature.
Ford’s emphasis on voice control aims to make the entire experience voice-first, offering an alternative to traditional manual interactions. The centrepiece of the new digital experience is a 48-inch 4K panoramic display with 1,000 nits of brightness, divided into three zones: Ford’s Essentials, Supporting Information, and glanceable widgets for quick access to music, weather, and other essentials.
The display prioritizes key driving information, navigation, and customizable widgets for easy access. Ford’s partnership with the Google Play Store allows integration with various apps, including Asphalt Nitro and select video conferencing apps. While video feeds are accessible when parked, the system switches to audio-only calls when driving.
Ford plans to introduce this digital experience first in the all-new Lincoln Nautilus in 2024, followed by other Ford and Lincoln models. Users are expected to subscribe to the Ford or Lincoln Premium Connectivity plan, which includes 5G access to support the functionality of the system.
