With some dealerships reporting that they will receive demo models of Ford’s Mustang Mach-E as early as December of this year, Ford has now released more details on its level 3 hands-free autonomous driving capabilities.
At the launch of the Mustang Mach-E it was confirmed that it would be equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360 Technology as well as Active Drive Assist to allow hands-free driving. It requires driver-facing camera to ensure the driver is alert and attentive and will only be available on pre-mapped highways. If all boxes are checked, the driver is able to sit back and enjoy hands-free driving: “Available Active Drive Assist builds upon available Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go Lane Centering and Speed Sign Recognition. It allows you to operate your vehicle hands-free while the driver is monitored by a driver-facing camera to make sure you’re keeping your eyes on the road, with the potential for more enhancements in the future. This feature is available on prequalified sections of divided highways called Hands-Free Zones that make up over 100,000 miles of North American roads.”
Today, Ford announced that within the first year, this technology will be in 100,000 of its vehicles. The first to receive the technology will be the Mach-E and new F-150.
According to the company: “For Mustang Mach-E, it will come standard on CA Route 1, Premium and First Edition variants. It’s an available package on the Select trim for $3,200 as part of the larger Comfort and Technology package, which includes features such as a 360-degree camera, heated front seats and heated steering wheel.”
Although it won’t be available at launch, Ford promises the Mach-E will be able to receive over-the-air software updates which they will start pushing to the five-door electric crossover SUV, as well as the new F-150, as early as Q3 of 2021.