If SYNC sells cars for Ford, the Blue Oval is now going to see how well its latest electronic add-on moves the metal. In an effort to compete with OnStar, Ford has developed SmartAlert with a company called SkyWay Systems, Inc., of Colorado. Available to be installed by dealers by Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury dealers, SmartAlert uses GPS and can operate as a stolen car tracking service, and it will be connected to a call center that can unlock your doors for you. The system can also keep track of your speed, so teens beware: parents can set the system up to alert them to your lead-footed ways via cell phone, e-mail, or text message. To have SmartAlert installed will cost from $700 to $1,200 for the first year, after which, as with OnStar, customers will pay a monthly fee. Add this to the new features coming in SYNC 2.0 like 911 Assist, and it appears we have a nice little rivalry going in the field of in-car telematics.[Source: Auto News, sub req'd]
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
TORR @ Feb 21st 2008 2:25PM
I think its a great idea who's time has come. Although I also know that most people dont renew Onstar after the free trial period is over. At the tune of $199 a year for basic Onstar or $299 a year for directions & Connections, it has proven for most people to be beyond what is wanted.
Mike Botros @ Feb 21st 2008 2:30PM
With it providing speed tracking, it could help get some people out of speeding tickets. that could be worth it.
mk @ Feb 21st 2008 2:35PM
Nanny-state-like bullcrap.
No thanks.
There are other ways into a locked car, especially with a little bit of planning before it happens.
Chassis data integration with a cell phone interface, no thank you.
Corey W. @ Feb 21st 2008 2:45PM
Fairly new to Onstar, just got a truck but IMO, it's an excellent option. The only problem I have with this is the controlling of any data used or captured by Onstar. I really believe there is some serious privacy issues with these systems. I don't like electronic in my vehicle I can't in some way or control. For example, I buy used, and have already figured out how to disable the so called ABS/Braking stat recorder better know as the "black box" to your insurance/law enforcement.
Larico Brown @ Feb 21st 2008 3:29PM
Finally Ford Is doing something to futher it technology. Ford is bringing it all together, for the first time.
Jim in Tampa @ Feb 21st 2008 5:13PM
Why can't they have Sync link up with a bluetooth cell phone and function similar to Onstar without the monthly charge? Most people will upgrade the cell phones and service they have to accomodate this kind of feature without the recurring monthly fee like Onstar.
Opps - just answered my own question! The monthly fee!