Earlier this year, Apple announced a partnership with Ford to bring native Apple Maps integration to the automaker’s upcoming Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) Platform, including what we now know is called the Fathom.
In a new interview, Alan Clarke, Ford’s vice president of advanced vehicle projects, elaborated on the decision to use Apple Maps instead of Google Maps and what this means for CarPlay Ultra.
In an interview with GreenCars, Clarke said Ford spoke with Apple, Google, and others about mapping for the Fathom. Ultimately, the company turned to Apple:
Clarke said Ford wanted a close working relationship with the Apple Maps team. There are a lot of factors that go into mapping for an EV, including things like range, charger availability, weather, and more. Taking all of those things into account, Ford determined Apple offers “the best solution.”
Clarke also confirmed that this is Ford integrating Apple Maps into its native, in-car software platform. The automaker is not adopting CarPlay Ultra in the Fathom. Instead, it will offer native Apple Maps, plus standard CarPlay and Android Auto.
With CarPlay support, Ford drivers can choose between Apple Maps, Google Maps, Waze, and other mapping solutions. They can also easily access many excellent third-party CarPlay apps.
You can watch the full interview on the GreenCars YouTube channel.
My favorite CarPlay accessories
- Charge your EV with solar panels
- iOttie Easy One Touch iPhone Car Mount
- Bring wireless CarPlay to any car
- Belkin MagSafe-compatible Car Charger for iPhone
- Wireless Portable CarPlay Screen
- In-car USB-C charger with retractable cable
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