Ford and Google come together to improve the commuting experience

With Google Prediction API, a Ford hybrid could maintain a full charge until reaching an EV-only lane, potentially saving fuel and speeding up the commute. (Photo: Ford)

that Ford vehicles can optimize themselves to specific commutes. The technology is called Google Prediction API and records data such as where a driver has driven to and even the time of day the commute took place. Such information is used by Google API to predict where a driver may be headed on future commutes and at what time the driver wishes to depart.

Ford says a vehicle outfitted with Google API can interact with drivers via the onboard computer in order to determine the driver's destination, such as a worksite. The Ford vehicle then accesses a cloud-stored data library and uses the information to optimize the commute by selecting the best route of travel, for instance. Ford says a plug-in hybrid could benefit from Google API by opting to run on gasoline power for a select duration of a commute and then switch to electric power in order to take advantage of an electric-only driving lane.

Ford is

Google Prediction API optimizes fuel economy by predicting the best route possible. (Photo: Ford)

presenting its concept this week at the 2011 Google I/O developer conference. Ryan McGee, a technical expert of Vehicle Controls Architecture and Algorithm Design at Ford Research and Innovation had the following to say of the partnership with Google:

"The Google Prediction API allows us to utilize information that an individual driver creates over time and make that information actionable," said McGee. "Between Google Prediction and our own research, we are discovering ways to make information work for the driver and help deliver optimal vehicle performance. Once the destination is confirmed, the vehicle would have instant access to a variety of real-time information so it can optimize its performance, even against factors that the driver may not be aware of, such as an EV-only zone."

Google's Prediction API technology foreshadows an increasing reliance upon active and passive technologies that both interact with vehicle occupants and operate unbeknownst to them. Once thought the stuff of science fiction, it's a sure thing that such technological innovations will become more common and even expected by consumers in years to come.©(Copyright Canadian Auto Press)]]>