Ford Embeds Apple Maps in Next-Gen EV Platform
Apple and Ford have partnered to integrate Apple Maps into Ford's next-generation electric vehicles (EVs), starting with the midsize Fathom truck in 2027. The integration, made possible by Apple's MapKit for Automotive SDK, will provide drivers with a built-in navigation system that doesn't require an iPhone.
The new map experience, which will be available on Ford's Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) platform, offers natural-language turn-by-turn directions, live traffic and incident data, search with detailed place cards, and route options. For EVs, Apple Maps also provides charging-aware routing and battery preconditioning to ensure the pack is ready when a charger is nearby.
Ford's CEO Jim Farley said that the integration of Apple Maps will redefine what advanced technology can be in an affordable electric vehicle. 'We're proud to embed Apple Maps' navigation and mapping technology directly into our Universal Electric Vehicle Platform, giving customers the ultimate navigation experience,' he stated.
The partnership marks a significant shift for Ford, which has traditionally used Google maps or Android Automotive. However, Farley left the door open for other Ford vehicles to receive a similar Apple experience in the future, saying it 'could' happen.