Ford BlueCruise – The Next Advancement Towards Autonomous Vehicles on UK Road

BlueCruise and Autonomous Vehicles

Ford’s BlueCruise system was recently approved for use in the United Kingdom - the first European country to embrace the technology. The system is currently only included as a feature in the 2023 Mustang Mach-E model. New owners are given a 90-day free trial to try out it out. They can continue using the feature by paying a monthly subscription.

Vehicle autonomy is measured on a six-stage scale created by the Society of Automotive Engineers, ranging from Level 0 (little to no autonomous functions) up to Level 5 (complete autonomy). BlueCruise is classed as a Level 2 assistance system, meaning it provides a partially automated function. Other car manufacturers, most famously Tesla, have already incorporated this level of automation into their vehicles. Ford following suit signals a trajectory towards widespread automation.

Accident Liability

To avoid liability for accidents, Ford requires drivers to retain their focus on the road. This is a safety precaution to overcome technical problems which may occur while the system is in operation. To ensure awareness, BlueCruise includes a camera which monitors the driver’s eyes whilst the system is engaged.

Since the driver ultimately remains in control, they will be held fully liable in insurance claims. This solution aims to clarify disputes and provide a level of protection for car manufacturers from legal challenges. Nonetheless, it encourages manufacturers to test their systems, gain more information for research and further improve safety.

Further Concerns

The incorporation of technology such as BlueCruise is also developing further concerns. One prominent worry is that drivers may be unaware of the technological limits of their vehicles. Currently, manufacturers are responsible for providing the consumer with the necessary information on how the technology works. However, the drivers must put this into practice. Currently, there is no required training, or legislation in force, to ensure drivers reciprocate the manufacturer’s efforts.

Despite growing concerns, BlueCruise has already been operating on the roads in the US and Canada since 2021. This has amounted to over 60 million miles travelled with the technology without any reported collisions.

Conclusion

Although the BlueCruise system is not a fully automated system, its approval for use in the UK indicates a step towards introducing further autonomous vehicle technology. The timid, incremental steps seem to be an effort against jeopardising public safety. Although the BlueCruise technology is promising, more research will undoubtedly be beneficial for everyone. Level 5 autonomous vehicles are on the horizon. Like all journeys, it is important that we arrive there safely rather than quickly.

By Alexander McLean