Ford Pickups, Vans to Feature In-Dash Computers
CHICAGO --- Ford is further expanding its "smart" features for truck customers, announcing a collection of technologies for F-Series trucks and commercial E-Series vans that will help make business owners more productive and successful.
CHICAGO --- Ford is further expanding its "smart" features for truck customers, announcing a collection of technologies for F-Series trucks and commercial E-Series vans that will help make business owners more productive and successful.
Ford Work Solutions delivers four innovative features:
-- An in-dash computer developed with Magneti Marelli and powered by Microsoft Auto that provides full high-speed Internet access via the Sprint Mobile Broadband Network and navigation by Garmin. This system allows customers to print invoices, check inventories and access documents stored on their home or office computer networks --- right on the job site.
-- Tool Link, a Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) asset tracking system developed in partnership with DEWALT and ThingMagic. This enables customers to maintain a detailed real-time inventory of the tools or equipment stored in the pickup box.
-- Crew Chief, a fleet telematics and diagnostics system, which allows small fleet owners to efficiently manage their vehicles, quickly dispatch workers to job sites and keep detailed vehicle maintenance records.
-- Cable Lock security system developed in partnership with Master Lock to discourage theft of expensive tools too large to fit in the cab.
"Our truck customers are smart --- and they work hard," said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of the Americas. "Ford Work Solutions provides truck customers new technologies and tools to help them work even smarter and further boost their productivity."
F-Series has been the best-selling truck in America for 31 years. Ford Work Solutions adds still another dimension of capability for commercial truck owners.
All four Ford Work Solutions will be available this fall on the new 2009 Ford F-150 XL, STX, XLT and FX4 trucks; F-Series Super Duty XL, XLT and FX4 trucks; and all 2009 E-Series vans. Transit Connect vans join the lineup in mid-2009. In time, several of the features will be available for dealer installation to upgrade Ford Trucks already in service.
More Safety

Nominations Open for 2026 Fleet Safety Award
Nominations have officially opened for the 2026 Fleet Safety Award Winner.
Read More →
Turning Connected Vehicle Data Into Decisions That Matter
Fleet leaders have more data than ever, but turning that data into clear, actionable decisions remains a challenge. This white paper shows how leading organizations are using connected vehicle data to improve safety, reduce costs, and optimize fleet performance. Learn how to turn insight into action across your fleet.
Read More →
Cameras, Safety and Insurance: From Reactive Claims to Real-time Prevention
Commercial auto remains one of the most challenging and costly lines of coverage for fleet operators and insurers alike. Learn more about how to effectively address these issues from Onur Aksan, Enterprise Business Development Executive, Geotab.
Read More →
NAFA Fleet Safety Symposium to Collocate With 2026 Fleet Forward Conference
The daylong certificate program will precede the Fleet Forward Conference at the Gaylord National Harbor in Maryland.
Read More →
The Distractions You Can’t Turn Off: What Drivers Face Outside the Vehicle
Fleet drivers face constant visual, cognitive, and environmental interruptions the moment they hit the road. From roadside chaos to mental fatigue and digital overload, today’s biggest driving risks often come from outside the vehicle itself.
Read More →
FLASH Weather AI Launches First Deep-Learning Hail Prediction Model With High-Resolution Forecasting
FLASH Weather AI has launched a first-of-its-kind hail prediction model capable of forecasting hail size and arrival time at 1-kilometer resolution up to 55 minutes ahead, giving fleets and insurers critical time to prepare for severe storms.
Read More →
How Coca-Cola United Protects Its Fleet from Growing Legal Risk
As litigation risk rises, vehicles are increasingly targeted. This Coca-Cola bottler shares how it’s reducing exposure through driver training, technology, and a proactive risk management approach.
Read More →
How to Speak the Same Language on Fleet Safety
Drivers, supervisors, and data often speak different safety “languages.” Getting on the same page will drive better results.
Read More →
Fleet Cybersecurity 101: What You Need from Your Technology Vendors
From identity management to third-party certifications, the right technology partner should make security easier to manage. Here are the three building blocks that fleet managers need to stay in control as connected systems scale.
Read More →
Reducing Risk by Eliminating Phone Use Behind the Wheel
Distracted driving remains one of the most persistent risks in fleet operations. New approaches focus on removing mobile device use entirely while adding real-time safety support.
Read More →
