Ford Work Solutions Systems Revolutionizes Commercial Vehicle Industry

Although Ford puts a lot of focus on its consumer vehicles, it sells many of its

trucks and vans to commercial operators, such as contractors, repair services and more. While Ford has been touting Sync for its cars, SUVs and crossovers, it's been hard at work developing an equivalent system for those whose vehicles are mobile offices. Dubbed Work Solutions, Ford has developed a series of unique features that are sure to make life on the job a whole lot easier, no matter what profession.

Working with Magneti Marelli and Microsoft, Ford came up with an in-dash computer for which much of the Work Solutions system is based around. The computer uses flash-based memory (2 gb), but has no physical hard drive, although it can be expanded with USB memory sticks and SD memory cards. The touchscreen system also features broadband wireless connectivity via Sprint, which can be used to access the web, and can even be linked to a client's office network to send and receive e-mail, plus look up websites while on the go. Combined with Bluetooth connectivity and wireless functions, the system can be linked to a keyboard and even a wireless printer, allowing owners to print out receipts and invoices

on the spot. Furthermore, the computer includes GPS navigation by Garmin, and is housed in a frame that's similar to the current Ford navigation system. It also includes a built-in stylus for the touchscreen.

Next up is the Tool Link system, which works with the computer system and was developed by DeWalt and ThingMagic. Using radio frequency infrared tags (attached to tools) and a reader mounted in the vehicle, owners can set up a tool inventory of what's in their truck or van that is displayed on the computer's screen. Owners can further label each of their RFID-tagged tools. By doing a quick check before leaving the worksite, owners can prevent leaving tools behind. Amazingly, the on-board system can be accessed remotely, so before heading out to the job, owners can link up with their desktops to ensure that they've got all the proper tools for a job.

Because of its wireless broadband link, Ford is also offering several other functions

including something called CrewChief. This telematics system allows operators to link up to vehicles equipped with the system for more effective dispatch, as well as to track the vehicle's health and maintenance. The system can alert and warn for excessive idling and for misappropriate vehicle use, and information such as the engine check light, and tire pressure warnings can all be relayed back.

The last link in the Work Solutions system is the Cable Lock system, which was developed with Master Lock. It essentially allows owners and operators to lock objects in the bed or in the vehicle, preventing theft.

The Work Solutions system will be available on E-Series vans, the new Transit Connect compact van, F-Series trucks and the Super Duty series, but can be retrofitted to any Ford vehicle that features a double-DIN headunit. Ford is currently the only manufacturer to offer such a system, and by dialing into exactly what commercial buyers want and need, you can be sure that Ford will remain a step ahead in this highly competitive sector.