Ford turns to Apple Maps for its future electric vehicles

Ford will become the first carmaker to use Apple’s new MapKit for Automotive software, bringing Apple Maps directly into its electric vehicles instead of relying on Apple CarPlay. Apple introduced the software development kit at its developer conference this week. Ford will begin using it in a midsize electric pickup due in 2027. The software will later appear in other models built on the company’s new electric vehicle platform.

Apple Maps runs inside the vehicle

Unlike Apple CarPlay, which mirrors apps from an iPhone, MapKit for Automotive runs as part of the vehicle’s own infotainment system. Drivers will be able to view live traffic conditions, search for destinations and receive turn-by-turn directions. The software also includes route planning for electric vehicles, taking battery range and charging stops into account. Another feature is battery preconditioning. Before arriving at a charging station, the vehicle prepares the battery for charging, which can reduce charging time.

BlueCruise will also use the mapping data

Ford says Apple Maps data will be used by the latest version of its BlueCruise hands-free driver assistance system. The updated software is expected to handle complete highway trips, including entering and leaving highways. Ford has previously said it wants BlueCruise to take on more driving tasks over time. Ford also sees value for its Ford Pro commercial fleet business. With navigation built into the vehicle, fleet operators could send drivers to job sites, plan routes and track fleet activity without depending entirely on third-party navigation apps. For businesses running large fleets, having mapping integrated into the vehicle could make daily operations easier to manage.

Ford is Apple’s first automotive partner

Apple says MapKit for Automotive will be available to other vehicle manufacturers, but Ford is the first company to announce plans to use it. The two companies have signed a commercial agreement, although neither has disclosed its value. As vehicles become more software-driven, manufacturers are looking beyond engines and batteries. Navigation, connectivity and digital services are becoming a bigger part of how new vehicles are designed and used.