Mach-E Web Series Part 2: SYNC 4A

[VegStang]

For those of us that stay away from Google/Amazon/FaceBook for privacy reasons, this choice is an important one that Tesla's platform doesn't address.

Nice to hear that the maps (nice/full-screen) are embedded/downloaded on-car, but would have loved to hear them address more how Ford is dealing/processing user data- not just security- the system will be vacuuming up alot- linked to profiles- the assumption (in their statement) is that the data isn't commodified by Ford or their partners since they get paid by the customer via car purchase/subscription, but still unknown. Is the data processed on device/car or by cloud for example.

I've had several debates with Tesla owners about this already. They insist that Tesla is better and you don't need Android Auto or CarPlay. It's about choice. I don't want to pay $60K and told I can't use Android Auto. Overall, SYNC 4A looks impressive. Very flexible and slick interface.

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[macchiaz-o]

Should you not charge it more than 80% on a regular basis

We'll need to wait for the owners manual to find out. Different manufacturers have different recommendations on this, based on how they are managing their battery packs and charging.

 

[JamieGeek]

Should you not charge it more than 80% on a regular basis

With Ford leaving 10kWh (ER) as a buffer I'm going to guess charging to 100% will not be an issue.

 

[timbop]

Yes, it's possible that someone directed a question directly to one of the panelists. There's a pull-down list above the entry box for the question. The default option goes to all the moderators/participants, if I recollect.

ah, I see

 

[nivlem]

I'm trying to figure out how SYNC 4 "connectivity" will work. I understand it will provide over-the-air updates thru a cloud-based connected-vehicle network . I also understand connectivity/access to AT&T's 4G networks may be necessary. I have also seen references to owner cellular data being a component of this system. Would appreciate some help understanding this. For example: How does cellular data fit in? Is a subscription service a part of SYNC 4? If there is a subscription service what will it cost?

 

[jparduhn70]

I'm trying to figure out how SYNC 4 "connectivity" will work. I understand it will provide over-the-air updates thru a cloud-based connected-vehicle network . I also understand connectivity/access to AT&T's 4G networks may be necessary. I have also seen references to owner cellular data being a component of this system. Would appreciate some help understanding this. For example: How does cellular data fit in? Is a subscription service a part of SYNC 4? If there is a subscription service what will it cost?

If my 2019 Escape is any guide, there is connectivity that's always on so that the FordPass app can communicate with the vehicle at any time to give me vehicle information like oil life and location. I can also pair the system to my home WiFi for the updates when it's in the garage. Since I'm working from home and often don't drive it for extended periods of time, the connectivity will go into a sleep mode to preserve the battery if I don't drive it for a week or two. The AT&T connectivity is a separate feature where I can subscribe to or purchase data so the onboard hotspot can be used in the vehicle, but I've not found that useful seeing as anyone that rides in the vehicle seems to have plenty of cellular data to use on phones. I'm not sure AT&T is the always-on provider for the connectivity for FordPass.

 

[pb3]

I'm hoping next week I can get some details on how that panoramic glass roof works.

?

 

[Jolteon]

Should you not charge it more than 80% on a regular basis

That's generally safe advice for BEVs, yeah.

 

[Jolteon]

If my 2019 Escape is any guide, there is connectivity that's always on so that the FordPass app can communicate with the vehicle at any time to give me vehicle information like oil life and location. I can also pair the system to my home WiFi for the updates when it's in the garage. Since I'm working from home and often don't drive it for extended periods of time, the connectivity will go into a sleep mode to preserve the battery if I don't drive it for a week or two. The AT&T connectivity is a separate feature where I can subscribe to or purchase data so the onboard hotspot can be used in the vehicle, but I've not found that useful seeing as anyone that rides in the vehicle seems to have plenty of cellular data to use on phones. I'm not sure AT&T is the always-on provider for the connectivity for FordPass.

Yeah AT&T is the Ford LTE modem service provider in the United States. The car has a basic account that Ford pays for, and then you can sign up for the WiFi hotspot feature for yourself. The 2-year prepaid hotspot might actually be a good deal if SYNC 4A won't just directly stream over AT&T's connection.

 

[GoGoGadgetMachE]

thanks for getting this posted, @Mach-E VLOG - it's actually a really great video and I'm glad I spent the time to watch it.

 

[nivlem]

Thanks Jolteon and jparduhn. Are you saying that communications between the Mach E and the cloud with your driving data, intelligent routing info, charging station status, OTA updates, ect will be thru the Mach E modem at no cost? Personal cellular data is not involved?

 

[ChasingCoral]

That is already in this video here: (at 1:49)

Bingo. I’d missed it in the video. Awesome. Thanks ?

 

[jparduhn70]

Thanks Jolteon and jparduhn. Are you saying that communications between the Mach E and the cloud with your driving data, intelligent routing info, charging station status, OTA updates, ect will be thru the Mach E modem at no cost? Personal cellular data is not involved?

I've never paid a dime for communications between my vehicle and FordPass app, and my personal cellular plan is not part of the equation, so my answer is 'yes' to both of your questions.

 

[Maric]

Appreciate you posting these as I'm time zone equivalent challenged.

 

[Badger_Prof]

That's generally safe advice for BEVs, yeah.

Safe? Yes. Necessary? Maybe not. Let's wait for the manual or official report from Ford to learn if Ford feels the reserve they have held back is sufficient protection for the battery.

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