Ford has launched its BlueCruise hands-free driving technology in the United Kingdom (UK). The driver-assistance technology has received full approval from the Department of Transport and can be used on 3,700km (2,300 miles) of pre-mapped highways in England, Scotland and Wales, referred to as “Blue Zones”.
BlueCruise is a Level 2 driver-assistance system that enables the car to control acceleration, braking, lane positioning and steering independently while the driver remains in control of the vehicle. However, Ford requires the driver to be fully aware and ready to take control of the vehicle at any time.
The technology will be available for 2023 models of the Mustang Mach-E, using five radars to detect and track the position and speed of other vehicles on the road.
Ford’s BlueCruise uses a forward-facing camera to detect lane markings and speed signs, while an infrared driver-facing camera is located below the instrument cluster to check the driver’s eye gaze and head pose, even if they are wearing sunglasses. The car displays warning messages in the instrument cluster if it detects the driver is inattentive, followed by audio alerts and brake activations before slowing down while maintaining steering control.
In the UK a 2023 Mustang Mach-E SUV will cost around £50,750 (~$84,800 CAD). Ford will offer a complimentary 90-day trial of BlueCruise, after which it will require a monthly subscription fee of £17.99 (~$30 CAD).
