It sounds like the stuff of science fiction, but Ford has developed a system that can block incoming phone calls and text messages leaving drivers to concentrate on the road ahead.
The 'Do Not Disturb' feature is part of Ford's programmable MyKey and diverts calls to voicemail and saves texts for later viewing on any device that is connected via the car's Bluetooth.
This system is the latest addition to the MyKey technology that allow parents to restrict the vehicle's top speed, limit the audio volume and encourage safety belt usage any time their children are behind the wheel.
"MyKey can give parents peace of mind when they hand car keys over to their kids, and 'Do Not Disturb' enables parents to control another risk factor when their child gets behind the wheel." said Peter Patzelt, Ford system architect for MyKey.
MyKey will become available next year in the UK on the Ford Fiesta before being expanded to other models.
Paul Healy - 28 Oct 2011