Print 7 comment(s) - last by Souka.. on Jun 15 at 1:12 PM

App will save Focus Electric owners money

(Update: Ford tells us the Android and BlackBerry apps are not currently available yet, but "will be available later when Ford approves testing.")

MyFord Mobile -- a new Android app available on Google Inc.'s (GOOG) Play market (download appears to be not up yet) -- was announced today by Ford Motor Comp. (F).  The app is also available as a iPhone app on Apple, Inc.'s (AAPL) iTune App Store and as a BlackBerry app on Research in Motion, Ltd.'s BlackBerry World.  The automaker's new app gives electric vehicle buyers the ability to monitor the charge on their vehicle's battery.

It also allows a special charging mode called "Value Charging" via "a cellular connection to the Focus Electric via an AT&T embedded cellular modem".  The Value Charging feature leverages technology from both Microsoft Corp. (MSFT) and AT&T, Inc. (T).

The app also features a helpful tracker that helps drivers locate public charging stations that are cropping up in some cities and suburbs.

Ford charging
MyFord Mobile [Image Source: Ford]

The app is compatible with the new Ford Focus Electric, which saw limited delivery to customers in California, New York and New Jersey last month.  The vehicle will see a mass launch in Q3 2012.  The app will also work with Ford's upcoming EVs -- the C-MAX Energi and Fusion Energi plug-in hybrids.

Rival General Motors Comp. (GM) offers similar apps for its plug-in Chevy Volt.

For those who don't own a Ford electric vehicle, but are curious about them, the app also has a "guest mode" that provides users information about the company's advanced electric technology fleet.

Source: Ford [press release]

Comments     Threshold


HOW does it save money?
By rzrshrp on 6/14/2012 10:12:53 AM , Rating: 3
I don't see anywhere in the post how it's supposed to save money even though it's the title. Fine, it communicates with your phone but where does that communion save money?

RE: HOW does it save money?
By Souka on 6/14/2012 12:26:07 PM , Rating: 2
It's more convienent for electric users.

1: Is my car charged yet?
1b: or what % is my car charged?

2: Where is a charging station near me?

Those are two big questions a few Honda Leaf owners I know say are important.

