Ford has upgraded its hands-free highway driving capabilities with the introduction of Automatic Lane Change on the new BlueCruise 1.5 software. This feature, developed by Ford’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) team, allows for smoother and more efficient hands-free driving on highways, addressing issues such as slower-moving traffic.
When activated, BlueCruise 1.5 can autonomously perform lane changes to bypass slower vehicles, maintaining the driver’s set speed without the need for manual intervention. This functionality not only enhances the flow of traffic but also maximizes the duration drivers can remain in hands-free mode.
Designed to enhance user experience, the system carefully merges into lanes only when it is safe and avoids complicated traffic patterns near off-ramps or areas with unclear lane markings. With the capability to automate up to 45% of lane changes during normal driving conditions, as found in Ford’s internal testing, BlueCruise 1.5 aims to deliver a more relaxed and engaging driving experience.
Key features of BlueCruise 1.5 include visual and audio prompts that alert drivers before an automatic lane change is initiated, displaying the reason for the change on the driver’s information screen. However, for those who prefer more control, this feature can be easily disabled through the Driver Assistance settings.
The latest version, BlueCruise 1.5, will debut on the 2025 Mustang Mach-E, which will also feature additional improvements to hands-free driving adapted from earlier versions. Ford plans to extend these advancements to other models and years, promising further enhancements that build on the success of prior iterations.
Ford’s commitment to refining BlueCruise reflects its dedication to improving safety and convenience for drivers. According to Ford, approximately 77% of BlueCruise-enabled trips in the U.S. last year lasted less than 20 minutes, while for longer highway journeys, over half relied on the technology, underscoring its utility for both daily commutes and extended travel.
BlueCruise is available as an equipped feature on select Ford vehicles, requiring a subscription following a trial period or initial duration, with modem activation necessary for some models. As with all driver-assistance technologies, BlueCruise is designed to complement, not replace, attentive driving.
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