2009 Ford trucks to track tools, more

[Flandry]

Ford has partnered with Sprint, Microsoft, Dewalt, and Garmin and others to trick out their 2009 F-150, F-Series Super Duty, and E-Series vans for the workplace. From their press release:

-- An in-dash computer developed with Magneti Marelli and powered by
Microsoft Auto that provides full high-speed Internet access via the
Sprint Mobile Broadband Network and navigation by Garmin. It's the
first broadband-capable in-dash computer in production. This system
allows customers to print invoices, check inventories and access
documents stored on their home or office computer networks - right on
the job site.

-- Tool Link, a Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) asset tracking
system developed in partnership with DEWALT, the industry leader in
professional power tools, and ThingMagic, the industry expert on
embedded RFID technology. This enables customers to maintain a
detailed real-time inventory of the tools or equipment stored in the
pickup box.

-- Crew Chief, a fleet telematics and diagnostics system, which allows
small fleet owners to efficiently manage their vehicles, quickly
dispatch workers to job sites and keep detailed vehicle maintenance
records.

-- Cable Lock security system developed in partnership with Master
Lock®, the industry-leading lock manufacturer, to discourage theft of
expensive tools too large to fit in the cab.​

Full size Ford ad

 

[TedJ]

Its pretty awesome and all... but I think its gonna be annoying more than anything else. I think car manufacturers are running out of features to add...

 

[Joe Dirt]

I agree with Ted. Sure, it's cool stuff, but it's a bit ridiculous already- I like the simplicity of my truck. This is all part of the reason my boss had to spend $50,000 for a new Super Duty. How much is enough? Just build a good, reliable, decent truck. Save the extra stuff for the aftermarket and stop driving up the price of the vehicles to the point that nobody will but them.