In a partnership with Nuance Communications, Ford takes a huge step towards increasing the safety of its vehicles - and many Ford models are considered some of the safest cars yet.

Nuance Communications, a sophisticated provider of speech and imaging solutions, announced that it will integrate its speech recognition technology and other features into many new Ford vehicles. This integration enhances the driver’s ability to concentrate on the road. Here are some of the more interesting features that drivers will soon find in their new Ford vehicle:

Voice-activated destination – With this feature, drivers simply say an address aloud and the computer relays relevant information to the driver. The driver no longer needs to type the address on a keyboard or even take his or her eyes off the road.

Hands-free Calling – Cell phones are a danger to drivers because drivers typically need to glance away from the road to look at the phone while dialing. Drivers also need one hand to hold the phone up to their ear. - that’s one hand less on the wheel of the car. With this safety feature, drivers simply push a button on the steering wheel and everything becomes voice-activated. Your hands and eyes are free to focus on paying attention to the road ahead.

Voice-activated audio feature – Instead of looking at the radio dial to find your favorite station, this technology allows you to simply say your favorite station aloud. The same concept also works to control the CD changer.

Voice-activated climate control – With a simple voice command like “warmer” or “cooler”, drivers sit in adjusted climate comfort regardless of the weather outside.

Currently, Nuance Communications is working with Ford manufacturers across Europe to integrate the speech technology in Ford cars. It’s just a matter of time before the technology is available in North America and all over the world.

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