SECOND GENERATION SYNC® WILL TURN SOME FORDS INTO "WI-FI HOTSPOTS" IN 2010

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Have you ever wanted to surf the web or even catch the latest "Truth With Speedzzter" from the comfort of your new Ford?

In 2010, Ford Motor Company is apparently going to make that much easier. Next year, Ford products equipped with the second generation SYNC® in-car connectivity systems will be able to turn their rides into mobile WI-FI hotspots.

According to FoMoCo:

"Inserting an owner’s compatible USB mobile broadband modem – sometimes called an “air card” – into [the second generation] SYNC’s USB port will produce a secure wireless connection that will be broadcast throughout the vehicle, allowing passengers with WiFi-enabled mobile devices to access the Internet anywhere the broadband modem receives connectivity. . . ."

"Default security is set to WiFi Protected Access 2 (WPA2), requiring users to enter a randomly chosen password to connect to the Internet. When SYNC sees a new WiFi device for the first time, the driver must specifically allow that device to connect, preventing unauthorized users from “piggybacking” on the SYNC-provided signal."

According to Mark Fields, Ford President of the Americas, "While you’re driving to grandma’s house your spouse can be finishing the holiday shopping and the kids can be chatting with friends and updating their Facebook profiles. And you’re not paying for yet another mobile subscription or piece of hardware because Ford will let you use technology you already have. . . . Using SYNC with existing mobile devices helps Ford provide the most value, the most flexibility and the most convenience for owners. Constant connectivity is becoming a routine part of our customers’ lives, and we’re making existing technology more accessible without adding costs: That’s the kind of value Ford drivers have learned to expect.”

Now while this may not be as exciting an EcoBoost V8 or a Camaro SS-whipping, Coyote-powered Mustang GT, many "appliance motorists" will undoubtedly be impressed. These sorts of high tech innovations should help Ford attract a broader, younger customer base.