Ford Motor Company has already committed to a next-generation BlueCruise system, which will be introduced in 2027. This second generation system will allow for eyes-off driving and foresees point-to-point autonomy by 2028. At the time of the announcement, CES—the gargantuan Consumer Electronics Show—was well underway in Las Vegas. Indeed, it was one of the largest updates we’ve seen from big automakers in attendance.
According to Ford, the driving experience is about to get way better with the new BlueCruise system. Ford’s training to provide a system that is capable of point-to-point autonomy. Rival automakers such as Tesla already provide a version of this feature with their Full Self-Driving (But Not Really) software. Rivian has already previewed a similar system slated to arrive by year’s end.
Ford’s BlueCruise system will first be integrated into a mid-sized electric pickup truck built on the company’s low-cost “Universal Electric Vehicle” platform. This smart move positions Ford to provide more advanced technology. The new BlueCruise system is close to 30% cheaper to manufacture than the previous generation, cutting back on production costs.
The auto industry’s CES announcement is a reflection of the major shift in the automotive space and exhibits at CES. The level of involvement from the major automakers is a shadow of their dominance in these markets in the late 2010s. Sean O’Kane, a seasoned reporter covering the transportation industry for TechCrunch, emphasized the significance of Ford’s plans during this period of transformation in the automotive sector.
Ford’s commitment to innovation and long-range vision is clear in its plan to fully integrate and deploy advanced driver-assistance technologies. The firm tries to focus on consumers wants while being cost effective in their production methods.
“How many bags of mulch can my truck bed support?” – Ford says