“Hands-free driving” approved in Europe

The Ford BlueCruise hands-free driving function is now approved for use on 133,000 km of motorways in Europe.

The “hands-free driving” system Ford BlueCruise is a driver assistance feature that allows a level 2+ autonomy.

Level 2+ autonomous driving approved at Ford

The European Commission has just approved the use of the Ford BlueCruise driving assistance system in 15 new European countries, namely 20 pays In total: customers of the brand with the blue oval will be able to use level 2+ autonomous driving features on more than 133,000 kilometers of highway sectionsdont 95% of French motorways.
“Whether you’re navigating traffic or taking on a long commute, BlueCruise makes highway driving easier and more enjoyable.”said Ashley Lambrix, General Manager of BlueCruise at Ford Motor Company: “The expansion of Blue Zones in Europe marks an important milestone in allowing drivers to take full advantage of BlueCruise on long journeys across multiple countries.”
BlueCruise technology is currently available on the new Ford Mustang Mach-E Electricand allows the Level 2+ autonomous drivingthat is to say that the driver has the possibility of letting go of the steering wheel while keeping his eyes on the road, on the sections of road called “Blue Zones” where this use is authorized.

“Hands-free driving” only by subscription

Currently, more than 420,000 vehicles of the Ford and Lincoln brands on the road worldwide feature BlueCruise technology. On the Ford Mustang Mach-E, new customers who purchased the American electric SUV this year already benefit from BlueCruise, while customers who purchased their vehicle before this year will be able to benefit from this feature in a future remote software update.
The BlueCruise system allows you to take control of the steering, acceleration, braking, positioning of the car in the lane, and also the safety distances with other vehicles. It monitors road markings, speed signs and changing traffic conditions. This system works from cruising speed on the motorway to a complete stop in traffic jams.
Drivers using BlueCruise are not required to hold the steering wheel, but they must remain attentive to the road. To verify this condition, a camera constantly monitors the driver’s gaze and head position, and can operate even if the driver is wearing sunglasses.

The BlueCruise function can be used for a 90-day free trial period. Beyond that, you will have to subscribe to a subscription of €24.99 per month or €280 per yearto continue to benefit from it…


Photo credit: Ford

Source: www.autoplus.fr