One-Millionth SYNC Vehicle: CEO Alan Mulally Delivers Steve Ballmer’s Milestone Ford Fusion Hybrid

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer takes delivery of a 2010 Fusion Hybrid from Ford CEO Alan Mulally

Yesterday, Alan Mulally delivered the one-millionth SYNC equipped vehicle to Microsoft’s CEO Steve Ballmer. Of course it was the all-new 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid that has been making headlines all around the automotive world with its EPA estimated 41-mpg city. Just a hunch here but I think this is a calculated move for both companies.

Whether Ford and Microsoft are in cahoots for publicity is really irrelevant in this case because the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid really is a marvel of modern design. Sure it could use some brighter colors and the option to make it look a little sharper on the outside (who said hybrids have to be muted and dare I say boring?), but over all even this 20 something writer would buy one if there was room in the garage and the budget. When I drove the Ford Fusion Hybrid during the 41-mpg challenge event here in Colorado I was very impressed and I am in good company. Carl Edwards helped the Ford and the Fusion Hybrid team exceed their 1000-mile goal on one tank (see Record making single tank mileage) and then went out an bought one himself.

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid with 1 Millionth SYNC System

At the end of the day, Microsoft and Ford have come together to offer a product that has to major differentiators—Microsoft SYNC technology and spectacular in-town fuel efficiency. I recommend anyone who hasn’t go and check out the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid, it might just impress you as well.

Read more of AllSmallCars.com's coverage on the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid here.

Full Press Release from Ford below:

FORD CEO ALAN MULALLY DELIVERS 1 MILLIONTH VEHICLE WITH SYNC TO MICROSOFT CEO

SYNC hits million unit milestone; now offers 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Reports
Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer takes delivery of a 2010 Fusion Hybrid, America’s most fuel-efficient midsize car
Purchase by Microsoft CEO underscores positive partnership of two powerhouse brands, Ford and Microsoft, joining forces to deliver affordable products consumers want

SEATTLE, May 26, 2009 – The popularity of Ford SYNC® reached a new milestone today, as Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally delivered Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer his new 2010 Fusion Hybrid equipped with the 1 millionth SYNC system, which is powered by Microsoft Auto software.

“We have made a commitment to deliver the vehicles that people really want and value,” Mulally said. “The success of SYNC is another proof point that we are doing just that. We will continue to innovate and expand the capability of SYNC by integrating even more new technologies that fit our customers’ lifestyles.”

SYNC is Ford’s fully integrated, voice-activated, in-car communications and entertainment system for mobile phones and digital music players. Since its debut in 2007 on the Ford Focus, SYNC has continued to gain in popularity. More than 80 percent of the vehicles Ford sells in North America are equipped with the system.

Like other advanced hardware and software solutions, SYNC continues to expand its applications. In 2008, SYNC was upgraded with two new applications, Vehicle Health Report and 911 Assist™, and more are on the way.

Ford’s latest SYNC application, Traffic, Directions and Information, will be available for download this summer. It will provide simple hands-free access to personalized traffic reports, precise driving directions and up-to-date information including business listings, news, sports scores and weather.

“Working with Microsoft and other key technology partners, we’ve made Ford the connectivity leader in the auto industry,” said Jim Buczkowski, director of electrical and electronic systems. “We do not plan to stand still; we have several additional developments in the pipeline, including launching SYNC in Europe and around the world.”

The 1 millionth SYNC equipped vehicle, a 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid, is only fitting, because the all-new sedan is the new benchmark in midsized sedans. The 2010 Fusion Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient midsize car in America, with a certified 41 mpg rating in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, topping the Toyota Camry hybrid by 8 mpg in the city and 2 mpg on the highway.

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Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 205,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company’s wholly owned brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.

Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.