Ford's BlueCruise Enables Hands-Free Driving on UK Motorways
Published Date: 14th Apr 2023
Ford has launched its BlueCruise technology in the UK, allowing drivers to take their hands off the wheel on certain motorways legally. This “hands-off, eyes-on” technology can control steering, acceleration and braking, but a camera will monitor the driver's eyes to ensure they stay on the road. The feature will be available for 2023 models of its Electric Mustang Mach-E SUV initially and can also maintain a safe distance from other cars and even bring them to a stop in traffic jams. However, this is only offered on a subscription basis, and the first 90 days are included with the £50,830 car purchase. After that, drivers will have to sign up for a monthly subscription.
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The UK is the first European country to approve the technology. Transport Minister Jesse Norman stated that reducing the scope for driver error could make driving smoother and safer. Lisa Brankin, managing director of Ford in Britain and Ireland, stated that the car will only take over when "the system feels it's safe" on pre-mapped motorways across England, Scotland and Wales. Brankin added that the driver will still be fully responsible in insurance claims, as the technology is not autonomous driving, and the driver is always in control.
Thatcham Research, which examines assisted driving technology, has noted that because BlueCruise users remain responsible, “a lot of the legal and technical complexities of automation and self-driving have been avoided while still offering a feature that can reduce fatigue on long, monotonous journeys.” The system represents a Level 2 driver assistance system, which requires a human driver to take control should anything go wrong. The technology can be used on most UK roads, and the Department of Transport has approved it.
- Ford has launched its BlueCruise technology in the UK, which allows drivers to take their hands off the wheel on certain motorways.
- The feature is available on 2023 models of its electric Mustang Mach-E SUV and is offered on a subscription basis.
- The UK is the first European country to approve the technology, and it can reduce the scope for driver error.
- The system represents a Level 2 driver assistance system, which still requires a human driver to take control if necessary.
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