Ford Switches from Google to Apple Maps for Next-Gen EVs
Ford is switching from Google to Apple Maps for its next-generation electric vehicles (EVs).
The Integration: EV Route Planning, Battery Preconditioning, and Real-Time Traffic
The integration will bring EV route planning, battery preconditioning, and real-time traffic to Ford’s $30,000 electric pickup, while Apple’s road-level data will help build the next version of BlueCruise hands-free driving.
Key Points:
- Launch: The new system will launch with a $30,000 midsize electric pickup in 2027.
- Technology: Ford will use Apple’s new MapKit for Automotive SDK.
- Data Integration: Road data from Apple will feed into the development of BlueCruise.
A Notable Reversal:
Ford had partnered with Google in 2021 to bring Android Automotive to millions of its vehicles, but for its most important new product line, it’s now turning to Apple.
CEO Jim Farley called the electric pickup a vehicle that “redefines what advanced technology can be” and said Ford is “honored to be among the first to embed” Apple Maps directly into a car.
Features:
- Turn-by-turn directions: With natural language search, real-time traffic, and incident data.
- EV-specific route planning: Accounts for charging station locations, estimated range, and battery preconditioning.
- Customization: Allows automakers to build a navigation experience that matches their vehicle software’s look and feel.
Competition:
Google’s Android Automotive platform has been gaining traction across the industry, but Ford’s decision suggests the competition for in-car software is far from settled.
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