What is Ford BlueCruise technology?

Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving technology

Every day there are developments and advancements in autopilot and driver-assist technologies. Following this trend, Ford has also launched its hands-free level 2 advanced driving assist system (ADAS). The name of this technology is Ford BlueCruise. So, what exactly is Ford BlueCruise technology and how does it work? Read this blog to learn more about the Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving technology by Crosspointe Motor Cars. You can then check out our Ford inventory here at Crosspointe Motor Cars in Winchester, VA!

What does hands-free driving mean?

The markets currently only have a Level 2 autonomous driving assist system available. This helps keep the vehicle in its lane, maintains the distance from other vehicles, and assists with lane changes. Although, the driver is still required to monitor the road, hold the steering wheel most of the time, and be ready to take over control immediately. This is far from fully automatic driving technology (Level 4) but it is a step in the right direction.

 How does Ford BlueCruise work?

If the vehicle is on one of the hands-free blue zones (10,000 miles of qualified roadways) and certain conditions are met, the BlueCruise is activated. This means that the driver can now press the cruise control button and release their hands from the steering wheel.

Although, it is important to note that this system is not autonomous. The driver has to be alert and prepared to take control of the vehicle at all times. BlueCruise includes a head and eye position sensor to ensure that the driver is constantly paying attention to the road. If the driver removes eyes from the road for too long, the BlueCruise system will disengage automatically. Another important thing to note is that the system will not work on highways that do have the visible lane-markers of the Blue Zone.

Which vehicles have the Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving technology?

At the time of writing this, the technology is only available in the 2021 Ford F-150 and the 2021 Mustang Mach-E that have the Ford Co-Pilot360™ Active 2.0 Prep Package. But after the over-the-air release of the technology later this year, this technology will be available for all 2021 and later model year Ford vehicles. For more such informative posts, make sure to follow our blog!

[Also read: What are the key features of the Ford Co-Pilot360™? How does it work?]