Ford cars will be offered with Alexa Personal Assistant in India by 2020. Along with the existing Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connectivity, the Ford cars will soon offer the industry-first in-car Amazon Echo services. The Alexa voice assist system will be integrated with the Microsoft Sync 3 AppLink that will respond in various languages, including Indian dialects.
The upcoming in-car voice assistant will offer details on traffic or destination information. Additionally, the system will also give access to news, music library and weather updates. The in-car-Alexa will work in conjunction with the Microsoft Sync 3. The AppLink system is built on an open source Smart Device Link Software, thereby allowing processors to engage with it. The system will offer a home-to-car feature that will allow the in-car Alexa to be linked with the Alexa Echo device at the user’s home. Using internet enabled functions, the user can also control house lighting, security system, garage doors, etc. Moreover, the vehicle will also allow engine start-stop option, door lock and unlock function, and monitor vehicle readings.
Ford India has not given any official statement on this yet and more details will be known in the days to come.