TechCrunch Startup News US safety regulators expand Ford hands-free driving tech investigation
Jan 23, 2025
A federal safety regulator is intensifying its investigation into Ford's BlueCruise hands-free driving technology. This comes in response to two fatal accidents linked to the system's detection challenges. The potential for a recall looms large, raising critical safety issues surrounding advanced driver assistance systems. As the probe unfolds, it sheds light on the broader implications for automotive technology and consumer safety.
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Ford BlueCruise Investigation Upgraded
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) upgraded its investigation of Ford's BlueCruise.
- This hands-free driving system is under scrutiny after two fatal crashes involving stationary vehicles.
BlueCruise Limitations
- NHTSA's initial investigation revealed limitations with BlueCruise's ability to detect stationary vehicles.
- These limitations are prominent at speeds above 62 mph and in low-visibility conditions.
Hands-Free vs. Hands-On
- Unlike Tesla's Autopilot, which requires hands on the wheel, BlueCruise is hands-free.
- However, BlueCruise operates on pre-mapped highways, while Tesla's systems are less constrained.