S550 to be very high-tech?

[shelby1k]

IF the S550 does gain weight it could be because of these rumors about the S550 being very high tech.

Just saw this article.......

If talk from a supposed inside source is correct, the all-new 2015 Ford Mustang could be one of the most technologically advanced sports cars in its segment when it debuts next year.

In fact, the source’s comments coupled with other news about the car over recent months suggest that the next-gen Ford pony car could be one of the most high-tech cars on the market when it launches – outside of the fact that the line-up won’t feature a hybrid or EV model that we know of.

In addition to confirming speculations that the new Mustang looks a lot like some of the renderings that have been circulating reminiscent of the Ford Evos Concept (like it or not), the unnamed member of Ford’s development team reportedly told Torque News the 2015 model will feature a number of high-tech features, according to a published report.

The insider, who said he’s seen the car, apparently didn’t provide the news source with any specifics about what type of technology the new Mustang will feature, but if recent news of some of the carmaker’s other technology developments are any indication of what to expect, it could be ground-breaking on a number of fronts.

The car will almost certainly be equipped with a more advanced MyFord Touch infotainment system with additional features to satisfy enthusiasts such as the ability to share performance stats on a number of different social networking platforms. Previous reports also indicate that the car’s powertrain, which will include a 2.3-liter turbo four-cylinder as one of the engine options, will feature a number of advanced technology components – although that comes as little surprise, considering that Ford has won the International Engine of the Year award two years in a row.

There’s been speculation that the 2015 Mustang could even feature 10-speed automatic transmission in the future. It’s also expected that the new model will have independent rear suspension, which should enhance the car’s performance capabilities substantially. Additional features like a configurable LCD gauge cluster, which been appearing in more cars lately, could be an option.

However, it’s the inside source’s comments coupled with some other recent news coming out of Ford, that should excite tech fans even more. Take for example some of the technology features on the S-Max Concept, unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, which features Intelligent Projection System with Pre-Collision Assist that identifies pedestrians and automatically applies the brakes if a collision is imminent.

The concept vehicle, aimed at the European market, is also equipped with a dual-view display that allows the driver to receive important data while from the same center console screen while the front passenger can enjoy a movie and a variation of Wi-Fi networking.

Other technologies featured in the S-Max concept include car to car communications capabilities and “wellness” features connected to Ford’s Sync communications system, which can monitor heart rate and glucose levels, according to an official Ford press release. Given the power of past Mustangs, a heart rate monitor might not be a bad idea.

The S-Max, which Ford has said features technologies that could make their way into future U.S. models, also is equipped with an enhanced version of Ford’s self-parking system that can control the throttle, steering, brakes, and gear changes for fore-aft parallel-parking. Purists may balk, but it could be a godsend for a car with limited rear vision.

In addition, Ford could integrate or build on some elements of its new surveillance technology police cars that uses existing Ford driver-assist technologies including a backup camera, cross-traffic alert and reverse park assist that aims to protect officers from potential assailants. The same technology in a Mustang would of course be tailored to driver safety.

Of course, whether or not the 2015 Mustang will actually be equipped with these features is purely speculative at this point. Purists might grumble at more computerization in what they think should remain a more simple driver’s car, but considering how much is riding on the new Mustang, I can’t imagine Ford not integrating some of these new technology features into the new model – especially with talk of wanting the new Mustang to have more global appeal.

We just hope we're able to turn either all or most of them off as well so we can focus on the driving experience as well.

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[Melino]

It's not just computerization of cars that is the problem... it's WEIGHT and COST!

Come on do we really need parking assistance, "pre collision assist" and "wellness" features on a Mustang? I really wanna know how much safer all of these new safety features have made driving. Especially if they also include dual displays that can play movies or the ability to share performance stats via social networking..... really?? Who is doing this kind of stuff in a car? 16 year old girls?

 

[nametoshowothers]

It's not just computerization of cars that is the problem... it's WEIGHT and COST!

Come on do we really need parking assistance, "pre collision assist" and "wellness" features on a Mustang? I really wanna know how much safer all of these new safety features have made driving. Especially if they also include dual displays that can play movies or the ability to share performance stats via social networking..... really?? Who is doing this kind of stuff in a car? 16 year old girls?

What is facebook by the way?

 

[aardvark]

Not really sure what to make of this piece, and I'm taking it with a grain of salt.

However, it's a bit worrisome if Ford really thinks that what Mustang fans want is some kind of luxury coupe with all the latest infotainment gizmos, parking assists, etc. etc

Of course, maybe some buyers do want and/or expect that stuff, but there's another segment that's been hoping for a more back-to-basics Mustang.

 

[Overboost]

Most of the whiz-bang stuff is optional. The core car with the performance options will be available too. It all depends on what "high tech" stuff they mean too. I don't care about updating my Facebook status as I hit a light post at 110 mph, but I'd like something like PTM to adjust driver control and make the car perform at it's limits more easily.

 

[DBCooper]

My source (who hasn't seen the car, but knows someone at a Ford dealership) says that it will have a testosterone tester and up the horsepower accordingly...


Seriously, though, if you are going to quote someone, give the source so that we can decide how reliable it is.

 

[MYs197]

I doubt you'd get a lot so-called "sources" to speak if you did that.

Anyhow I'd say more high tech is a given. Ford has been pushing the tech stuff hard with their latest concepts and production cars. About the only new technology I wouldn't mind seeing is HUD and they dont even mention that here.

 

[Twin Turbo]

Seriously, though, if you are going to quote someone, give the source so that we can decide how reliable it is.

I know it can be frustrating, but no one is going to reveal their sources if it's going to potentially cost them their jobs.

As for the tech? As long as it's optional, it's cool with me.

 

[DBCooper]

ya, I was referring to the source of the article, not "The insider, who said he’s seen the car"

 

[evilrazor]

Don't get me wrong, I like my tech... But if you can't parallel park your car you shouldn't be driving. Much less driving a performance oriented car. Lets hope that a base model mustang will exist with the ability to pick and choose what you want.

 

[Rob]

Don't get me wrong, I like my tech... But if you can't parallel park your car you shouldn't be driving. Much less driving a performance oriented car. Lets hope that a base model mustang will exist with the ability to pick and choose what you want.

Amen. I would rather have a based out V6 that I can add my own options to over time as opposed to having to spend 3 to 5 grand for some tech package that I don't want and won't use.

 

[Diesel]

We all end up paying for more tech option offerings in one way or another, whether it's by way of a general price hike across the whole line or by checking the box.

 

[nametoshowothers]

I agree about park assist no need. But Great sound system, navigation, performance apps, Bluetooth stereos connection and all the mobile phone connections are needed

More important it needs a more modern upscale interior especially on upper end models and need to have the tech all fit in

I was in the market for an m3, even thought the gt was its equal on performance, I would not have bought it over the BMW no matter the cost difference, the BMW had much better everyone else, I bought the Shelby though because it far out performs the BMW and the interior is ok enough. I think there are more buyers the mustang will appeal to if it does not have a crap interior and tech features, it will have the performance

I agree most need to be optional to allow the base customers to get the price they need

 

[All-Or-Nothing]

I'm gonna LOVE the new Track Apps...

 

[Rob]

I like having bluetooth phone connection through the stereo, that is one tech feature I have grown fond of. I would like to have a stereo that sounds good. Aside from that the only tech feature I would want is a heads up speed indicator on the windshield so I don't have to look down at my speedometer while I'm driving.

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