Ford has announced a program of additional training for its dealers and technical support staff preparatory to the launch of its new Sync communication system.

The hands-free system is wireless and will allow the driver to control mobile phones and MP3 players via voice commands as well as with buttons mounted on the steering wheel.

Sync will become available later this year as an option in the Focus, Fusion, Taurus, Edge, and Explorer SUV models as well as in most Lincolns and Mercurys.

The Focus will be the first to be outfitted with the system and vehicles outfitted with Sync technology go into production at the end of this month.

Hardware for the handsfree technology intended to keep drivers' eyes on the road is being supplied for the most part by Continental AG with Microsoft Corp. handling the software.

Because the success of the Sync system depends on its ease of use for drivers as well as on the quality of its performance, Ford wants its dealers completely prepared to educate drivers on how to use the technology as well as have the ability to demonstrate and sell it.

Joe Hinrichs, vice president of manufacturing for Ford, said, "We are putting a tremendous amount of resources on [Sync] because we see it as an exclusive opportunity for us to lead in this regard."

In addition to its ability to select songs and dial cell phones by voice command, the Sync system can also read text messages. The technology emphasizes both convenience for the driver and safety behind the wheel.