Ford is looking to debut their latest feature for driving without hands in at least two of their models. The F-150 pickup’s 2021 version as well as some models of the Mustang Mach-E 2021 line will have the latest feature via an update to their software. Similar systems are available with rivals GM and Tesla.
Ford Hopes To Put Up A Fight
The latest capability from Ford makes use of software, cameras, and radar sensors to enable the AI to recognize speed signs, center on lanes, as well as to adapt the cruise control speed. So far, Ford has claimed that the feature has undergone development testing of about half a million miles.
Jim Farley, Ford’s CEO, pointed out the extensive testing to undermine rival Tesla’s policy of letting customers experience beta software. The feature also comes with a camera inside the cabin that will keep track of the head position and eye gaze of the driver to help them maintain their focus while driving.
The system is going to be available for Ford vehicles that have the company’s Co-Pilot360 Technology. For now, the system will only function on specific sections of parted highways. BlueCruise that is coming later in the year will be coming with support for over 100000 miles of North American highways.
However, it has a considerable price tag. The software named BlueCruise will require a charge of $600 which will include a service period of three years. Upgrading the existing hardware will vary depending on what vehicle it is. For example, owners of the F-150 will be required to shell out an extra $995. Owners of compatible variants of the Mustang Mach-E, however, may have an additional cost of as much as $2600. The First Edition, Premium, and CA Route 1 variants come pre-installed with the system.
Currently, Tesla and GM are best known for their ADAS systems. However, Ford intends to break into that and sell over 100,000 cars with the system equipped in its first year.
