Ford is all set to launch the EcoSport soon and one of the talking points of the new compact SUV is what the carmaker is touting to be a “potentially life-saving” Emergency Assistance system.
The system, according to Ford, is a vehicle-based, no-cost, non-subscription call-for-help system that delivers a voice message directly to emergency operators, indicating that a vehicle has been involved in an accident in which the airbags have been deployed or fuel pump shut-off triggered and opens the line for hands-free communication.
“Ford’s Emergency Assistenace system has already proved itself as a life-saver in other parts of the world and we expect our customers here to appreciate this level of reassuring in-car connectivity,” said Joginder Singh, president and managing director, Ford India.
The Emergency Assistance system works via Ford’s Sync system, which is a voice-activated, hands-free communications and entertainment package for mobile phones and digital media players that allows the driver to make and receive calls and play music.
The Sync system uses the driver’s own mobile phone via Bluetooth and activates the moment the driver enters the car. In case an accident occurs, the Sync system uses its hands-free phone capabilities to connect the driver directly with India’s emergency service number – 108.
Before initiating the emergency call, the Sync system will provide a 10 second window to allow the driver or passenger to decide whether to cancel the call. If not manually cancelled within the 10 second window, Sync will place the emergency call.
“We’re very pleased to see a company like Ford take the initiative to launch such a critical service, which will provide Ford customers with an extra level of comfort knowing that should they be involved in an accident, 108 will automatically be contacted,” said Subodh Satyawadi, chief executive officer, GVK emergency management and research institute.
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