|
|
|
Smartphone app tells drivers the location of nearest charge stations for electric vehicles
The development of electric cars remains controversial but Ford is continuing to support the technology with the launch of a new model in the US.
Ford Focus Electric, which launches in the US in the spring of 2012, has a range of 70 to 100 miles. To enable drivers to gauge their ability to reach a destination or the next charging station, the company has developed a smartphone app.
The My Ford Mobile app can be used on Android, iPhone and Blackberry handsets, and tells drivers their DTE (distance to empty) based on driving behavior.
In the US Ford has set up deals with companies that build charging stations for electric vehicles so drivers can locate the nearest one within range.
A separate deal with Microsoft pushes information about electric company billing tariffs to the app, so drivers can take advantage of lower tariff periods, such as evenings, to charge the vehicle.
The app will also enable owners of the Ford Focus Electric to lock and unlock the vehicle's doors.
Ford hopes to bring the Focus Electric to the UK in 2013.
Article tags
Related articles
Apple iMessage is a taste of what all integrated messaging will become. We show you how to link up conversations across your desktop PC, laptop and smartphone
Are you thinking about updating to a smartphone? We list 10 benefits that could make your life easier and might make you dig deep into your pocket and get one
The cars of today feature many high-tech gadgets, from sophisticated self diagnostics to entertainment. We look at some of this clever on-board technology
Q.Can I switch boot drives so that I can work on older...
Q.Can I open my old genealogy files or have they gone...
Q.Why are odd patterns appearing on my monitors shortly...
Make a profit from your unused gadgets
Run Windows and Ubuntu on the same computer
Hide private folders
Save up to 40% on the price
Exclusive subscriber website
Our price won't be beaten
Video-sharing site praises users
Grahics Interchange Format. A type of image file often used on the web, but now largely superseded by...
|
|
|
|
|
Computeractive Excel (2010) Online tutorialPrice: £19.99 |
Computeractive Word (2010) Online TutorialPrice: £19.99 |
Computeractive Powerpoint (2010) Online TutorialPrice: £19.99 |
Angry BirdsPrice: £9.99 |
Back Issue CD-Rom 14 (2011)Price: £15.99 |
