Hands off, eyes free

Ford says those behind the wheel of its cars will be able to take their eyes off the road in around two years’ time thanks to a new version of its driver-assistance system.

It will also, in the coming months, roll out an artificial-intelligence tool customers can use in their Ford and Lincoln apps before the carmaker integrates it into models next year.

Ford’s eyes-off system will make its debut on its Universal EV Platform in 2028, according to Doug Field, pictured, chief EV, digital and design officer. It will underpin as many as eight low-cost EV models, including a midsize pick-up expected to cost around US$30,000.

The system is part of a broader push by the blue oval to “democratise technology” by rolling it out in mass-market vehicles, not just high-end models.

Ford’s current BlueCruise system allows drivers to take their hands off the wheel during stretches of highway driving, but requires them to keep their eyes on the road.

It plans to roll out new hardware and software for advanced eyes-on, hands-free driver assistance in 2027, also on its Universal EV Platform.

Ford has developed its driver-assistance systems in-house. By vertically integrating, Field says it’s better able to ensure quality and reduce costs by 30 per cent compared with what it could get on the market.

The company is “likely to use” lidar for its hands-off driving system, “but we’re going to be very specific about what we’re using it for”.

Ford’s tech push includes its new AI assistant, which comes to apps in the first half of 2026 before being integrated into some models from 2027. It will be able to help in multiple situations. If a user wants to go off-roading, the assistant can note if the tyres are overinflated and suggest which driving mode should be used.

The carmaker has also announced a new high-performance computing centre, and an in-house module designed for its future infotainment systems and driver-assist systems, reports Automotive News.