When you see a family member or loved one get into the driver's seat, what's your number one concern? For many of us, it's safety, and Ford has found a way to address this issue. Instead of focusing on social networks or smartphone-integration, Ford has taken several steps with its new Explorer to keep drivers safe on the road. Ford announced its intentions to launch new safety features next year, including enhancements to the existing MyKey feature.

Upgrades to the MyKey feature, which currently allows parents to limit the speed their teenagers can reach (80mph), will now allow parents to set the limit at 65, 70, or 75 mph. The system will also have a "Do Not Disturb" feature that will block calls that come into the hands-free phone system.  There are several other features also available with the update.

The 2012 Upgraded MyKey features:

- The ability to block satellite radio stations with adult content
- Volume control that limits the audio system's power
- Early low-fuel warning beginning at 75 miles left to go-

The new Ford Explorer will also include a lane-keeping and driver alert system, which will alert drowsy drivers with a chiming sound for a warning and a louder chime for more urgent situations. The current MyKey system is standard on all Ford vehicles that include the technology. There is no information yet about the costs of these new features, which will also be integrated in most Ford models in the next few years.

Stay tuned in with Spradley Barr Ft. Collins, located at 4809 South College Avenue Fort Collins, CO 80525for more information on vehicle upgrades. Meanwhile, check out the current 2012 Ford Explorer line or contact us for more information.