Ford Motor Co. has expanded its mobile capabilities to ten new vehicle models via sync features that let consumers use the application while driving.

The built-in phone technology lets users sync applications from their smartphones directly from their cars. The FordSync Applink is being rolled out in 2012 Ford models, including the Ford Fusion, Fusion Hybrid, Fiesta, Expedition, F-150, F-150 SVT Raptor, Super Duty, Expedition, E-Series, Shelby GT500 and the Mustang.

?At Ford, we are trying to catch on to the mobile and smartphone trend,? said Drew Marchwicki, product manager at Ford, Dearborn, MI.

?We?re working to ensure that our customers are able to leverage the technology in their smartphone devices,? he said.

Ford Motor Co. is a leading global automotive manufacturer and distributor.

Safe smartphones
Ford rolled out the new string of features after hearing consumers? needs for on-the-go technology that would let them use their smartphones and apps while still being able to drive safely.

?Our focus with the Applink technology has always been trying to understand what our customer wants and what their habits are,? Mr. Marchwicki said.

?We knew our customers were integrating apps on their mobile devices into their everyday lives, so we wanted to create technology that made it safe for them to use it while on-the-go in their cars,? he said.

By monitoring app sales and asking consumers what they were looking for, Ford found that there was a strong demand for Internet radio in cars.

Specifically, Mr. Marchwicki points to the Pandora app as an example of how Ford is integrating mobile apps into its cars.

According to Mr. Marchwicki, half of Pandora?s users use the company?s app on their mobile devices.

With Ford?s Applink software, the car will automatically detect the app when smartphone owners use their devices in Ford cars.

They can then control their music selections safely at the wheel by clicking through songs via the car wheel.

In the fast lane
In addition to the Ford Sync AppLink technology, Ford also has several other mobile platforms.

Recently, Ford rolled out the MyFord Mobile app that lets users of electric cars control their cars from their smartphones by checking their car?s charges and setting the car?s internal temperature.

Additionally, Ford released the Sync Destination app late last year that lets users store specific locations they have visited and uses geo-tracking and real-time technology to find the safest and quickest routes while driving.

Similarly, other car manufacturers also have mobile platforms.

The myChevrolet app from Chevy lets users schedule car services, find Chevy dealers and get roadside assistance.

Last year Nissan announced an app for the Nissan LEAF electric car model that lets users check their car?s charge and turn on a climate control system.

?As we grow, Ford will continue to leverage smartphone apps to deliver technology to our customers,? said Mr. Marchwicki.

?We?re committed to mobile and understand how it is quickly changing the needs of our customers,? he said.