Owners of 2010 and 2011 Ford Sync-equipped vehicles that are traffic-, directions- and information-capable can download a free smartphone application designed to make it easy for them to get to where they need to go.

The Sync Destinations mobile application is available for Apple?s iPhone and iPad, and Android-based devices, with a BlackBerry version coming soon. The application gives users mobile access to a host of navigation and traffic information specifically designed to make any trip easier.

?Our Sync strategy is built on allowing drivers to easily access their digital lives, and mobile devices, safely in the car,? said Alan Hall, communications manager for technology and design at Ford Motor Co., Dearborn, MI.

?Just like we've made it easy for owners to send addresses to their cars through MapQuest and Google Maps from desktop computers, the Sync Destinations app adds a further level of convenience for Sync users so they can access their account while mobile,? he said.

On-the-go access
With the new application, users have an exclusive on-the-go link to their cloud-based Sync Services account at http://www.syncmyride.com.

Users can add, save and manage "Saved Points" or addresses.

A maximum of 25 Saved Points can be accessed through the application.

Locations added via Sync Destinations are immediately accessible through Sync Services once in the vehicle, with turn-by-turn directions delivered to the car only a few simple voice commands away.   

The application makes it easier for users to better plan the when and where of their commutes via access to real-time traffic information, traffic forecasts and other time-saving features powered by INRIX, a provider of traffic information and driver services.

Forecasts
The traffic forecasts predict how travel times are expected to change over time. They are based on an analysis of current traffic conditions, day of the week, season, holidays and related days, current and forecast weather, accidents and road construction, as well as other local events such as school schedules, sports games and concerts.

The application forecasts the fastest routes based on current and expected traffic conditions as well as recommended departure times, expected travel times and ETAs.

Also specific to Sync Destinations is a 5 mph lockout feature, which automatically halts the app from running on a smartphone once it is detected to be traveling in excess of 5 mph, helping drivers stay focused on the task of driving.

Ford, Lincoln and Mercury owners of 2010 and 2011 Sync-equipped, traffic, directions and information-capable vehicles can download the Sync Destinations application for free.

?The app is specific to Sync-equipped vehicle owners, including Ford, Lincoln and Mercury brands, so the demographic is broad,? Mr. Hall said. ?Sync Destinations will be communicated directly to Sync owners through the http://www.ford.com and http://www.syncmyride.com Web sites, as well as http://www.thefordstory.com.?

Dan Butcher reported for this story.