- Ranger’s Bluetooth® Voice Control system allow drivers to operate their mobile, audio system, satellite navigation system and climate control using voice-activated commands
- Leveraging a common global electrical architecture, engineers are able to use globally developed and engineered components in the all-new Ranger platform
- Ranger offers comfort features and driver aids previously seen only in premium passenger cars
Melbourne, Australia, 31 August, 2011 – Say the word and your wish will be the all-new Ranger’s command. The all-new Ranger’s double cab XLT and Wildtrak models with the Bluetooth® Voice Control system allow drivers to operate their mobile phone, audio system and climate control using voice-activated commands – all wirelessly.
The voice control buttons are located on the steering wheel and are conveniently accessed when driving, leaving the drivers free to keep their eyes on the road as much as possible and their hands on the wheel. Voice commands are detected by a microphone housed in the cab.
The driver can easily make or take phone calls and access the mobile’s phone book and calling history. The system can also record voice tags for favourite numbers. In the same way, the driver has effortless control over the radio, CD player, iPod® and other external devices via the USB port. It is also possible to stream audio from the mobile phone.
Ranger’s integrated audio system is an integral and unique part of the centre dashboard, effectively deterring theft. The Human Machine Interface (HMI) on the central control panel is inspired by the latest communication devices, with a joy stick as a central control element and a soft feel number pad to enter phone numbers. These models also have an SMS-like multi-tab speller.
To further improve interior comfort, the new-to-Ranger dual zone climate control allows the driver and passenger to set separate temperature settings.
“The Bluetooth® Voice Control system sets the all-new Ranger apart from other competitors because it keeps drivers connected to their customers and business safely while enjoying the convenience of their iPod® and automatic climate control systems while on the road – all with a voice command,” said Con Papadomanolakis, manager, Electrical Integration, Ford Asia Pacific and Africa.
Premium comfort and convenience features
New from the ground up, all-new Ranger now utilises a common global electrical architecture that is also shared by the Focus and Mondeo. This means that engineers are able to use globally developed and engineered components in the all-new Ranger platform, resulting in more new features and technologies in the pickup which can be upgraded in the future.
For a start, XLT Ranger models will have cruise control, theatre-dimming, drive-away locking, automatic wiper park and a Thatcham – rated alarm system complete with interior motion sensors, battery back-up siren and dead locks. Wildtrak introduces rain sensing wipers, heated side mirrors, rear camera and parking sensors.
The list continues with automatic headlights that respond to low light conditions, puddle lights that come on when unlocking the vehicle, Follow-Me-Home safe lights which remain on for a minute after you’ve switched off the engine, and hazard lights that come on to warn the drivers behind if you hit the brakes suddenly.
Inside, the new instrument cluster design offers an outstanding array of information. Other than the vehicle system gauges, a central LCD display provides Trip Computer functions with information such as distance to empty, average fuel consumption, instantaneous fuel consumption, average speed and outside air temperature.
“Customers who are used to these convenience features from their passenger cars will be delighted to find a comparable level of comfort in the all-new Ranger,” said Papadomanolakis.
“Packed with smart technology and creature comforts previously seen only in premium passenger cars, the all-new Ranger offers an impressive choice for those looking for an all-in-one work and family vehicle.”
