Investigation into Ford’s BlueCruise System
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into Ford’s BlueCruise driver assistance system after two tragic accidents occurred. Both incidents involved Ford Mustang Mach-E vehicles colliding with stationary objects while the system was active during nighttime operation.
The NHTSA’s investigation will focus on the driver monitoring functionality of the BlueCruise system, which uses eye-tracking cameras to gauge driver attention and alerts them to retake control if attention drift is detected. The overall performance of the system in driving tasks will also be assessed. These accidents are being separately examined by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
Approval and Implementation of Driver Assistance Technology in the UK
While Ford’s BlueCruise system is under investigation in the US, it has gained approval for usage on select UK motorways with certain restrictions. The system allows drivers to momentarily take their hands off the wheel but only on specific road segments and within a speed limit of up to 81mph (130km/h). This “hands off, eyes on” feature was introduced in the UK last April after receiving governmental authorization.
Transport minister Jesse Norman praised the introduction of driver assistance systems in the UK, stating that they enhance driving comfort and contribute to road safety by reducing human error. The Department for Transport emphasized that the approval granted for Ford’s BlueCruise system in the UK followed a thorough examination and evaluation process.
Comparison with Tesla’s Autopilot System
The NHTSA’s investigation into Ford’s BlueCruise system coincides with its investigation into Tesla’s Autopilot driver assistance system. Both systems represent Level 2 autonomous driving software, offering partial automation. However, unlike BlueCruise, Autopilot requires drivers to remain attentive and keep their hands on the wheel.
In response to safety concerns, Tesla initiated a recall through a software update to over two million of its electric vehicles in December. This recall aimed to address identified safety issues and improve the effectiveness of the Autopilot system.
BlueCruise Technology Tested on the M25
Zoe Kleinman, the BBC’s technology editor, had the opportunity to test Ford’s BlueCruise hands-free technology on the M25, one of the UK’s busiest motorways. Her experience was a mix of relaxation and stress as she relinquished control of the vehicle traveling at 70 mph in morning traffic.
While BlueCruise effectively kept the car within its lane and maintained a steady speed relative to traffic, Zoe observed some actions taken by the system that she personally wouldn’t have chosen. For example, the system would undertake in the left lane and seemingly accelerate on slip-roads when exiting the motorway. These prompts required her intervention by applying the brakes.
Zoe concluded that while BlueCruise shows promise, it still has a long way to go before becoming genuinely beneficial. She also questioned whether drivers will ever feel completely secure in relinquishing control to such systems.
In conclusion, the investigation into Ford’s BlueCruise system highlights the need for thorough evaluation and scrutiny of driver assistance technologies. While these systems have the potential to enhance driving comfort and improve road safety, it is crucial to address any safety concerns and ensure that drivers can trust these technologies completely.
