Ford Releases BlueCruise Driver-Assistance Technology in the UK

Ford has just released an exciting new driver-assistance technology in the UK, and it’s causing quite a stir. The technology, called Ford BlueCruise, allows for “hands-off, eyes-on” driving on select UK highways, known as “Blue Zones.” This cutting-edge system is currently only available on the 2023 models of Ford’s all-electric Mustang Mach-E SUV, but it’s already making waves in the automotive world.

So, what exactly does Ford BlueCruise offer? Well, this subscription-based technology uses five radars to detect and track other vehicles on the road, allowing the car to handle tasks like acceleration, braking, lane positioning, and steering independently. However, Ford emphasizes that the driver must be ready to take control of the vehicle at any time and remain fully aware of their surroundings for BlueCruise to function properly.

To ensure the driver’s attention remains focused on the road, the system uses a forward-facing camera to detect lane markings and speed signs, as well as an infrared driver-facing camera to monitor the driver’s eye gaze and head pose. If the system detects that the driver is inattentive, it will display warning messages, sound alerts, and even apply the brakes to slow down the vehicle while maintaining steering control.

Ford BlueCruise is classified as a “Level 2” driver-assistance system, similar to Tesla’s Autocar and General Motors’ Super Cruise offerings. While the technology has been available in the US and Canada since 2021, it has just received approval for use on UK highways, marking a significant milestone for self-driving technology in the UK.

Of course, this level of innovation doesn’t come cheap. The 2023 all-electric Mustang Mach-E SUV comes with a hefty price tag of around £50,750, and after a 90-day trial, BlueCruise will cost drivers £17.99 per month. Despite the cost, Government research predicts that by 2035, 40% of new cars in the UK could have similar self-driving capabilities, indicating a growing trend towards autonomous vehicles in the future.

However, it’s important to note that using self-driving technology without regulatory approval or outside of approved uses can have serious consequences. In 2020, a Tesla Model 3 owner in the UK received a warning from local police for testing the Autopilot feature on a complex roundabout in Swindon. This serves as a reminder that while self-driving technology is exciting and promising, it must be used responsibly and within the boundaries of the law.

Overall, Ford BlueCruise represents a significant step forward in the world of autonomous driving, offering a glimpse into the future of transportation. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see more advancements in self-driving capabilities, making our roads safer and more efficient for all drivers.