Fast Company names Ford among top 10 most innovative mobile tech companies

What does Ford Motor Company have in common with Google, Apple, and Amazon?

Ford shares a spot with them on Fast Company's Top 10 list of ''Most Innovative'' companies in mobile technology, and is the first automaker to ever be recognised in the category.

MyFord Touch center stack with 8-inch touch screen and capacitive switches

Fast Company ranked Ford fifth in the mobile technology category for the introduction and evolution of SYNC Application Programming Interface, a connectivity system co-developed with Microsoft, that led to the creation of MyFord Touch, an innovative driver-connect technology, which will be available in the 2011 Ford Eagle.  

''This honour represents Ford's commitment to innovation and development of technology that enhances the driving experience and adds real value to the consumer,'' said Mark Fields, Ford president, The Americas. ''We're very proud of this recognition from Fast Company, and it is truly an accomplishment to be named amongst some of the leading technology innovators and mobile application developers.''

 In response to the explosive growth potential of the mobile device, Ford developed SYNC, and embarked on a strategy to build a software-based connectivity platform that could leverage the increasing power of the phone and improving data networks.

''The automaker has taken a great leap forward,'' says Fast Company.