Anyone with kids knows what it's like to leave the house and forget stuff behind. Those of you who are past their mid-30s might also remember when minivans were actually mini. Ford will unveil a concept next week at the New York Auto Show that tries to eliminate the first problem in a more manageable package. The Transit Connect Family One concept is based on Ford's new compact van going on sale this summer. The regular Transit Connect will normally be targeted at commercial customers who don't require something as large as the E-series van, although anyone can buy one. Ford is more likely using the Family One concept to evaluate interest in a people mover of this size, with an eye towards introducing the next generation of the C-Max here in the U.S. in a couple of years.
Follow the jump to see all the cool features packed into the Ford Transit Family One concept and check out the gallery of official high-res images below for now. We'll have additional live shots to show you later today, as well.
Follow the jump to see all the cool features packed into the Ford Transit Family One concept and check out the gallery of official high-res images below for now. We'll have additional live shots to show you later today, as well.
The Family One contains many features that a growing family would appreciate. The two front seats where Mom and Dad sit are separated from the back compartment by a window with a large opening in the center that's big enough to talk and pass things through. The kids will be entertained by a pair of large, high-resolution screens embedded in the window separating the van's compartments. There are also folding scooters in the back doors, book bag holders on the seat backs, built-in whiteboards, a walkie-talkie station with chargers and built-in dispensers for sun screen and hand-sanitizing lotion. Another nice touch for new parents is a storage compartment in the back area for a fold-up stroller.
concept van's most practical feature, however, would have to be the integration of Ford's Works Solution package, which has been renamed Family Solutions Connectivity. Using an in-dash PC and RFID reader, the system can track items in the vehicle and remind the driver if anything is being left behind. In the Family One concept, a parent can define a set of items on a PC that are needed for a particular task. One example is a list of hockey equipment. By putting RFID tags on little Joey's hockey gear, the system will tell you if anything has been forgotten before you set out for the ice rink.
concept van's most practical feature, however, would have to be the integration of Ford's Works Solution package, which has been renamed Family Solutions Connectivity. Using an in-dash PC and RFID reader, the system can track items in the vehicle and remind the driver if anything is being left behind. In the Family One concept, a parent can define a set of items on a PC that are needed for a particular task. One example is a list of hockey equipment. By putting RFID tags on little Joey's hockey gear, the system will tell you if anything has been forgotten before you set out for the ice rink.
No comments:
Post a Comment