Ford Delivers Millionth SYNC Vehicle

Redmond, Wash. - May 26, 2009 - Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally (left) visits the Microsoft campus to deliver Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer's new 2010 Fusion Hybrid equipped with the 1 millionth Ford SYNC system. SYNC, which is powered by Microsoft Auto software, is Ford's fully-integrated, voice-activated in-car communications and entertainment system for mobile phones and digital music players.

It doesn’t seem all that long ago that Ford rolled out its SYNC technology, developed with Microsoft Corporation to provide drivers with a voice-activated communications and entertainment system like none other available on the road. Ford had an exclusive arrangement with Microsoft to deliver SYNC technology for one year, giving the automaker a leg up on its competition.

One Million SYNC Models Later

Just this past week, Ford rolled out its one millionth vehicle equipped with SYNC, a 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid model which was delivered to Microsoft’s president, Steve Ballmer.

“We have made a commitment to deliver the vehicles that people really want and value,” Mulally said. “The success of SYNC is another proof point that we are doing just that. We will continue to innovate and expand the capability of SYNC by integrating even more new technologies that fit our customers’ lifestyles.”

SYNC Helped Ford Focus Sales

Last Spring, as gas prices began to climb, Ford took advantage of the technology by offering it in one of its most economical models, the Ford Focus. That combination of great sound and terrific fuel economy propelled Focus sales enabling the car to quickly become one of the top selling vehicles for 2008.

“Working with Microsoft and other key technology partners, we’ve made Ford the connectivity leader in the auto industry,” said Jim Buczkowski, director of electrical and electronic systems. “We do not plan to stand still; we have several additional developments in the pipeline, including launching SYNC in Europe and around the world.”

Moving Forward With SYNC

Although the proprietary licensing period with Microsoft has now ended, Ford’s edge in the arena of in-car communications is evident, something the automaker plans to build upon in the years ahead.

See Also — New Ford Shares Program Looming

Photo Credit: Ford Motor Company