Ford Sponsors a $50,000 Personalized Fuel Efficiency App Challenge for Mobile and Web App Developers

Online, April 16, 2013 (Newswire.com) - Terry's Ford, the premiere Ford dealership in Peotone, IL, invites area drivers and mobile-app and web-app developers alike to participate in Ford's new $50,000 Personalized Fuel Efficiency App Challenge. Otherwise known as the Ford OpenXC Challenge, the goal of the competition is to create an app that encourages increased fuel economy. App designers will utilize Ford's Android-powered Open XC platform in the creation of their app, a platform that is currently able to send over a dozen different measurements (such as vehicle speed, GPS location, and current steering angle) directly from the host vehicle to connected third-party hardware and software in real-time.

Contending apps will be judged on their overall ability to help drivers optimize their fuel efficiency with ease. The app must take into account what might make one driver's mileage vary distinctly from another driver, such as temperature, road conditions, traffic situations, and individual driving differences. The goal is that each driver might reach his or her uniquely optimal fuel efficiency and then share their new awareness with other drivers. Up to $50,000 in prizes will be awarded to the creators of the most effective apps.

Ford has already earned a reputation for high fuel economy innovation with models such as the 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid and the 2013 Ford Fusion. The 2013 C-Max Hybrid is loaded with a 2.0L 4-cylinder mated to an electric motor powered by a lithium battery. Together they produce 188 hp and an EPA estimated 47 mpg whether you are traveling through the city, on the highway, or a combination of the two.

The 2013 Fusion offers three engine choices. The standard S arrives with a 2.5L 4-cylinder that achieves an estimated 34 mpg on the highway, while the upgraded Fusion SE or Titanium come with an option for an Ecoboost 1.6L 4-cylinder that grants an EPA estimated 37 mpg highway. The third option is a 2.0L Ecoboost 4-cylinder that offers an EPA estimated 33 mpg on the highway.

Terry's Ford is located at 363 S Harlem Avenue in Peotone, Illinois. Those interested in purchasing a fuel-efficient Ford model or entering the OpenXC Challenge may contact the Terry's Ford staff by dialing (888) 832-3250.