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Ford launches smartphone-based security system for commercial vehicles
Date: Wednesday, January 6, 2021 | Author: Sean Keywood
A new connected vehicle security system, allowing vans to be monitored in real time via a smartphone, has been launched by Ford.
Guard Mode tells owner-operators and drivers about potential security breaches using the FordPass Pro app.
When activated – for example outside business hours or at weekends – Guard Mode uses sensors to detect if someone enters the vehicle, opens the bonnet or load compartment, or starts the engine.
It then sends out a smartphone notification using the vehicle’s FordPass Connect modem.
An alert will also be triggered if the vehicle is unlocked or started using the key – an action which would not trigger the arm, but may mean the key has been cloned or stolen.
The Guard Mode screens in the FordPass Pro app highlight the times the vehicle was accessed, the reason for alarms, when trigger actions happened and the vehicle’s last known location. A feature allowing users to schedule when Guard Mode is activated will also be added soon.
Guard Mode is the first feature that Ford will activate using an over-the-air software update, and will be progressively rolled out across its vehicle line-up.
Ford of Europe director of enterprise connectivity Mark Harvey said: “FordPass Pro and Guard Mode help owners protect their vehicles – and their businesses – by keeping them one step ahead of the criminals.
“And this is just the start. As all new vehicles now come connected, we see huge potential in developing additional security features to help our customers’ businesses thrive.”
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