Ford Vehicle

Ford will soon be rolling out its MyKey system on many of its vehicles, starting with the 2010 Ford Focus. In its effort to encourage safe driving habits for teens, MyKey technology allows parents to program their teen’s key to limit the vehicle’s top speed and audio volume. Other safety features that can be programmed into the key include a safety-belt chime, earlier low-fuel warnings, and programmed sound chimes at 45, 55, and 65 mph.

MyKey technology is built on Ford’s existing SecuriLock passive anti-theft system, but gives parents the programming capabilities through the vehicle’s message center. Each MyKey has its transponder chip read in the ignition to determine the driving mode for each specific driver. Initial presumptions about driving restrictions led to a polling of 67% opposition by teen drivers, but that figure was nearly cut in half to 36% with the knowledge that MyKey would lead to greater driving privileges.

About 50% of parents have said they would allow their teens to drive more if their vehicle were equipped with MyKey. Other programmed features aside from the previously listed ones include the disabling of Park Aid and BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) deactivation and traction-control engagement at all times. The vehicle’s top speed may be limited to 80 mph, while audio volume can be limited to 44 percent of total volume. Another benefit of controlled driving is better fuel economy.

Drivers can save up to 15% more fuel by driving at 55 mph rather than 65 mph.