Ford Unveils New App Featuring Driver Assistance, Virtual Payment

Ford plans to launch a new consumer platform this spring in an effort to address a wide array of transportation needs.

The FordPass program would enable drivers to connect with Ford assistance personnel via a smartphone app. The FordGuides would then provide members with directions or allow them to book parking in advance.

Ford will also partner with ParkWhiz and Parkopedia to help drivers locate parking, as well as with FlightCar to enable travelers to share vehicles.

The company eventually plans to include ridesharing and multi-modal transportation among its FordPass Marketplace offerings, while allowing members to pay using a FordPay virtual wallet.

The program, when it debuts in April, will be free for anyone to enroll, regardless of whether or not they drive a Ford.

“As we’ve studied the mobility challenges people face, we designed FordPass to help provide services that make consumers’ lives easier,” said CEO Mark Fields. “FordPass is really about listening to people’s needs and developing ways to help them move better.”

Ford will also connect members with rewards at partner corporations such as McDonald's and 7-Eleven, and plans to open FordHubs — which will display newly developed Ford technology — in New York, London, Shanghai and San Francisco.

The platform is part of the company's Ford Smart Mobility strategy, which also includes its connectivity systems and autonomous driving technology.