Ford's next-generation EVs will use built-in Apple Maps for navigation.
The system will include route planning and battery preconditioning features.
Ford is also tapping Apple Maps information to help develop its next version of BlueCruise.
Ford's next-generation of EVs is on the way, and they'll be bringing a new platform with them. The Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) platform will kick off with a $30,000 pickup truck and some flashy new cabin software. Specifically Apple Maps.
Rather than use its own native navigation software, Ford will be switching to a Apple's new MapKit for Automotive SDK. That will not only give it navigation, but a fully integrated software kit that will work throughout Ford's native UI. So it will provide turn-by-turn navigation in the all displays (likely including the instrument panel and head-up display), as well as real-time traffic info and accident information. More importantly, charge information will be integrated into Apple Maps, too. So you'll be able to find charging stations, plan your route based on range, and even factor in battery preconditioning.
