Working with Microsoft and Intel, Ford provided the students with a developmental application platform built on Windows 7 and Microsoft Robotics Developer Studio in the vehicle to access Windows Azure in the cloud.

A project like American Journey 2.0, involving teamwork with a university's student body, represents a developmental shift for Ford as it looks for ways to use novel models of open collaboration similar to how ideas are cultivated in Silicon Valley. The goal is to deliver relevant and personalized content tailored for an individual driver's unique in-car experience.

"Through our work with Ford, the University of Michigan and Intel on this project, Microsoft is helping to further open innovation within the automotive industry and provide a consistent, connected in-vehicle experience that seamlessly integrates into consumers' digital lifestyles," said David Graff, director of U.S. Automotive and Industrial Equipment Industry Solutions for Microsoft. "We commend each of these student teams for their creativity and work in developing these applications and look forward to continued collaboration opportunities to fuel the connectivity of future in-car systems with the vast world of Windows."

Intel also contributed expertise and technology tools to the project and is proud to participate in a project with future developers who will create the next generation of innovative, connected solutions for the car. "Intel is committed to offering products and technologies that will bring new compelling and driver-safe applications to the car," said Staci Palmer, director of Strategic Market Development, Embedded and Communications Group, Intel Corporation. "Our involvement in the American Journey 2.0 project is a great example of how Intel is working with industry leaders like Ford and Microsoft as well as future developers to encourage the development of connected computing solutions for the vehicle that bring personalized and relevant content to drivers and passengers."

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F), a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 176,000 employees and about 80 plants worldwide, the company's automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and, until its sale, Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com.

SOURCE Ford Motor Company