Ford Pro Deploys AI to Sharpen Edge for Commercial Fleets

DETROIT — Ford Motor Company is introducing a new artificial intelligence system designed specifically for its Ford Pro commercial division. The move aims to bolster the unit's profitability and expand its software-driven revenue streams.

The system, called Ford Pro AI, processes over one billion data points each day from connected commercial vehicles. It tracks metrics ranging from basic vehicle health and seatbelt compliance to detailed analysis of fuel consumption and route efficiency. Ford's objective is to provide its 840,000 paid commercial subscribers with clearer insights to streamline operations, cut costs, and keep their vehicles on the road.

Kevin Dunbar, general manager for Ford Pro Intelligence, stated the tool is about building a more resilient future for fleet operations. "When our customers succeed, it has a positive effect that extends far beyond their own balance sheets," Dunbar remarked during a briefing.

This initiative supports a broader corporate strategy. CEO Jim Farley recently identified software revenue as a key growth pillar for Ford Pro. The division's earnings from software and physical services, like mobile maintenance, are nearing a 20% target of Pro's total earnings.

Ford Pro, which encompasses sales to commercial, government, and rental fleets alongside its Super Duty truck line, reported $66 billion in revenue last year with a 10.3% profit margin. The new AI feature will be integrated into existing telematics subscriptions. Initially launched in a read-only format, Ford plans to evolve its capabilities based on user feedback. The system is built on Google Cloud, utilizing Ford's proprietary vehicle data.

Source: CNBC