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Ford researches SYNC serviceshelping manage illness on the goMetroland MediaCarguide Magazinecan quickly lead to an attack. Growing in popularity among this group are Web-based alertFord researchers are taking a leading role in developing services and smartphone apps that can help flag dangerous pollena series of health and wellness in-car connectivity solu-levels based on location.tions designed to empower people with self-help informa-tion while they drive.Leveraging Ford SYNC and its ability to connect devic-es via Bluetooth, access cloud-based Internet services and control smartphone apps, Ford is taking charge in this automotive whitespace area, developing industry-first voice-controlled in-car connections to an array of health aids from glucose monitoring devices, diabetes manage-ment services, asthma management tools and Web-based allergen alert solutions.Taking a smart, high-volume approach to bringing mobile health and wellness solutions inside the car, Ford researchers are first looking at two populations with the most need for a constant connection to potentially life-saving medical information people with diabetes and those with asthma and/or allergies. To create relevant in-car features and services for those living with these ailments, Ford is working with experts in these fields, including medical device manufacturers, healthcare management service providers and Web-based medical alert services. For people with diabetes and their caregivers, constant knowledge and control of glucose levels is critical to avoid-ing hypoglycemia or low glucose, which can cause confu-sion, lightheadedness, blurry vision and a host of other symptoms that could be dangerous while driving. Many now depend on a portable continuous glucose-monitoring device to track their levels.Likewise, those with asthma and allergies need to have a clear understanding of their environment and potential symptom triggers such as pollen levels in the air that Chevrolet Volt plant prepares for production boostMetroland MediaCarguide MagazineGeneral Motors' Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly plant, home of the Chevrolet Volt, will close for four weeks begin-ning in June for planned upgrades to prepare for a signifi-cant increase in the rate of Volt production, along with assembly of the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu midsize sedan.Already in tight supply, the number of Volts available for delivery to retail customers will be further restricted over the next three months before production resumes and the Volt and the Opel Ampera begin being exported to Europe and China. The Volt will be available in Europe, China and Canada by the end of this year.As a result of the plant upgrades, planned Volt and Ampera production capacity this year will increase to 16,000 units, including exports and a fleet of several hun-dred demonstration units sent to U.S. dealers.In 2012, global production capacity is expected to be 60,000 vehicles with an estimated 45,000 to be delivered in the United States.During the four-week shutdown the plant will complete some pre-scheduled upgrades, including the installation of new tools, equipment and overhead conveyor systems throughout the facility.This will prepare the plant for 2012 Volt and Ampera production and continue work on projects in preparation to launch the 2013 Malibu next year. 19 Wednesday, May 25, 2011 OAKVILLE BEAVER www.insideHALTON.com