Uh, that might not go well for Ford, based on the movie “Repo Men”.
Here is a response to this that was circulating on a mailing list of current and former Ford Executives:
Why Ford's Patent is a Bad Move for the Company and the Customers
By Two Former Ford Executives
We are writing this as two former Ford executives who have dedicated our lives to making this company a leader in the automotive industry. We have witnessed Ford's rise and fall, and its recovery and innovation. We have seen Ford produce some of the most iconic and popular cars in history, such as the Model T, the Mustang, and the F-150. We have also seen Ford face some of the toughest challenges and crises, such as the Great Depression, the oil embargo, and the global recession.
We are proud of Ford's achievements and legacy, but we are also concerned about its future. That is why we are deeply disturbed by Ford's recent patent on a technology that could remotely shut down your radio or air conditioning, lock you out of your vehicle, or prompt it to ceaselessly beep if you miss car payments. This patent is not only a threat to consumer rights and dignity, but also a grave mistake for Ford's business and brand.
First of all, this patent violates the basic principle of customer service and satisfaction. When we were at Ford, we always put the customer first. We listened to their needs and wants, and we delivered quality products and services that met or exceeded their expectations. We treated our customers with respect and trust, and we earned their loyalty and referrals. We did not harass or humiliate our customers, or make them feel insecure or unwelcome. We did not use technology to spy on or control our customers, or to punish them for their financial difficulties.
Secondly, this patent damages Ford's reputation and image. Ford has always been known as a company that stands for innovation, reliability, and affordability. Ford has always been a company that appeals to the masses, not to the elites. Ford has always been a company that empowers people, not oppresses them. This patent goes against everything that Ford stands for, and everything that we worked hard to build and maintain. This patent tarnishes Ford's name and values, and alienates its customers and fans.
Thirdly, this patent invites legal and ethical troubles. This patent raises serious questions about privacy, security, and safety. How would Ford collect and store the data of its customers' payments and vehicle usage? How would Ford protect this data from hackers or unauthorized access? How would Ford ensure that this technology does not malfunction or cause accidents? How would Ford comply with the laws and regulations of different countries and regions? How would Ford deal with the lawsuits and complaints that would inevitably arise from this technology?
We urge Ford to reconsider this patent and to abandon this technology. We believe that this patent is a bad move for the company and the customers, and that it will do more harm than good. We hope that Ford will focus on developing technologies that enhance the performance, safety, and comfort of its vehicles, and that benefit the society and the environment. We hope that Ford will remember its roots and its mission, and that it will continue to be a company that we can all be proud of.
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