Automotive gadgets like remote start, remote locking, and vehicle tracking have been around for ages.

But Ford Philippines has taken it one step further by putting all these convenience and security functions into one smartphone app.

The carmaker announced during its 25th-anniversary celebration on November 17, 2022, that it would initially roll out FordPass for the next-generation Ford Ranger and Ford Everest.

“FordPass will drive the future of the Ford ownership experience and we’re very excited to finally be able to launch it in the Philippines to benefit our customers who are technologically savvy and always on the go,” said Ford Philippines managing director Mike Breen in a November 2022 press statement.

“With FordPass, it’s like having a personal assistant for your Ford vehicle,” he added. “We leverage connectivity to offer our customers a smarter and simpler way of owning a Ford.”

FordPass works with vehicles that are equipped with FordPass Connect, which is a cellular modem that contains an e-SIM. This allows the car to connect to the Internet and access remote-control functionalities like:

• Remote Door Lock & Unlock – Lock and unlock doors without being near the vehicle.

• Remote Vehicle Start & Stop – Remotely start and stop the engine virtually from anywhere and cool the cabin with the last-known setting of your car’s climate control.

• Vehicle Locator – Find your Ford in confusing parking areas.

• Vehicle Status – This allows you to check how much fuel you have and your odometer reading.

• Access to Guides – A team of experts is available via phone or e-mail to answer any app-related questions.

Ford Philippines said FordPass would be available on mobile devices using Android 7.0 and above or iOS 14.0 and above. 

The app can be downloaded for free from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store starting Dec. 2, 2022.

Do you think apps like FordPass will be the norm in all cars?