Ford to Offer 4G Wi-Fi in All 2018 Models in Europe

Ford Motor Co. says it will offer high-speed wi-fi internet connectivity in all of its 2018-model vehicles in Europe.

The 4G LTE system will use U.K.-based Vodafone Group plc’s SIM and Internet of Things platform to enable as many as 10 devices in the vehicle to connect to the internet simultaneously and live-stream movies, music and work data. The service will require users to buy a monthly cellular package for their vehicles.

The wi-fi connectivity will be integrated with the carmaker’s FordPass smartphone app. The system will allow motorists to remotely lock and unlock car doors and check vehicle data such as location, fuel and oil level, tire pressure, battery life and alarm status. A live traffic feature provides real-time navigation updates to reroute drivers around congestion as needed.

Ford says the system is part of the company’s efforts to transition its Sync telematics platform to a cloud-based technology rather than being device-centric. Additional features will include eCall, which can automatically connect with emergency service providers immediately after a crash.