Ford launches hands-free driving on UK motorways. Image: FORD

After Ford’s BlueCruise technology is authorized in the UK, drivers will be able to legally take their hands off the wheel.

Ministers have granted approval for the implementation of “hands-off, eyes-on” technology on select motorways. This cutting-edge system, available initially in the 2023 models of the electric Mustang Mach-E SUV, allows for automated control of steering, acceleration, and braking.

However, to ensure driver alertness, a camera will monitor the driver’s eyes.

Furthermore, the technology includes features such as maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles and the ability to come to a complete stop during traffic jams.

It’s worth noting that access to this innovative technology will be offered on a subscription basis.

Thatcham Research, a renowned automotive research firm, emphasizes that the approved technology is not a self-driving car, but rather represents the next advancement in assisted driving technology.

What sets it apart is that, for the first time, drivers will be allowed to take their hands off the wheel, while still keeping their eyes on the road ahead, as highlighted by Tom Leggett, a vehicle technology specialist at Thatcham.

Leggett further emphasizes that it is crucial for drivers not to use their mobile devices, fall asleep, or engage in any activities that may divert their attention from the road.

This underscores the importance of maintaining vigilance and being responsible behind the wheel, even with the assistance of this innovative technology.

image: FORD

Purchasers of the £50,830 electric Mustang Mach-E SUV will have access to the technology as part of their initial purchase for the first 90 days, after which a monthly subscription will be required.

Deliveries of the new model commenced last month, featuring a maximum speed of 80mph and utilizing cameras and sensors to detect lane markings, speed signs, and other vehicles’ positions and speeds.

Transport Minister Jesse Norman acknowledged that advanced driver assistance systems not only make driving smoother and easier but also contribute to road safety by reducing the potential for driver errors.

Lisa Brankin, Managing Director of Ford in Britain and Ireland, stated in an interview with the BBC that the technology will only take over in certain “blue zones” that have been thoroughly pre-mapped across 2,300 miles of motorways in England, Scotland, and Wales, and only when the system deems it safe to do so.

Brankin also emphasized that the driver remains fully responsible in case of accidents, as the technology is not autonomous driving, and the driver is always in control.

The car’s prompts will continuously remind the driver to keep their hands on the steering wheel, and if the driver does not respond, the car will gradually slow down and come to a stop.

Indeed, Ford’s BlueCruise technology is categorized as a “Level 2” driver assistance system. This means that while the system offers advanced features such as automated steering, acceleration, and braking, it still requires a human driver to be ready to take control of the vehicle if any issues or unexpected situations arise.

The driver remains ultimately responsible for the safe operation of the vehicle and must be attentive, keep their eyes on the road, and be prepared to intervene when needed.

It’s important to note that BlueCruise technology is not an autonomous driving system, but rather a sophisticated driver-assist system designed to enhance the driving experience while prioritizing safety.

Thank you for providing a comprehensive breakdown of the five levels of autonomous driving. You are correct in describing the different levels of autonomy, as defined by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) International.

It’s important to note that while autonomous driving technology is advancing rapidly, most commercially available vehicles on the road today fall under Level 0 to Level 2, with Level 3 and beyond still being in development and subject to regulatory approval.

• Level 0 represents no automation, where the human driver has full control of the vehicle at all times. 
• Level 1 involves basic driver assistance features, such as cruise control, where the vehicle can control one aspect of driving. 
• Level 2, as mentioned previously, offers partial automation with the ability to control multiple aspects of driving, but still requires human intervention and attention.
• Level 3 represents conditional automation, where the vehicle can make most driving decisions, but the driver must still be present to take over when needed. 
• Level 4 is categorized as high automation, where the vehicle can operate without human intervention in specific conditions or areas, but is still limited by regulations. 
• Level 5 represents full automation, where the vehicle can operate autonomously in all conditions without any human intervention.

It’s important to note that the development and deployment of autonomous driving technology are subject to extensive testing, regulatory approvals, and safety considerations to ensure the safe and reliable operation of vehicles on the road.

Ford’s BlueCruise technology has been available in the United States and Canada since 2021. Over the past couple of years, more than 190,000 Ford and Lincoln vehicles have covered more than 60 million miles using this technology, and there have been no reported accidents associated with the use of BlueCruise.

This demonstrates Ford’s commitment to safety and the successful implementation of their driver assistance system in real-world driving conditions.

However, it’s important to note that despite the positive track record, the driver must always remain attentive, follow traffic laws, and be prepared to take control of the vehicle when necessary, as BlueCruise is a Level 2 driver assistance system that still requires human intervention and oversight.

Unreal sense of security

Tesla, a company known for its development of autonomous driving technology, recently issued a recall affecting 363,000 vehicles due to concerns raised by safety officials about potential risks associated with exceeding speed limits or traveling through intersections unsafely.

This serves as a reminder that even with advanced driver assistance systems or lane positioning technology, drivers must always remain vigilant and attentive.

Edmund King, President of the AA (Automobile Association), acknowledged that while these technological advancements can bring safety benefits, drivers should not develop a false sense of security.

He emphasized that even with hands-free driving or autonomous features, the driver remains ultimately responsible for controlling the vehicle and must be actively engaged in the driving process at all times.

This highlights the importance of responsible and safe use of driver assistance systems, with the understanding that they are not a replacement for human judgment and responsibility on the road.

It is crucial for drivers to stay alert, follow traffic laws, and be prepared to take control of the vehicle when needed, regardless of the level of automation or assistance provided by the technology.