Technologies to reduce driver stress have been revealed by Ford. Traffic Jam Assist is designed to help in stop-start congestion and Active Park Assist will incorporate a perpendicular parking function. The systems are part of Ford's 'Blueprint for Technology' vision for the future.
With increasing car ownership around the world the problem of congestion is predicted to get worse. Traffic Jam Assist uses radar and cameras to keep pace and remain in lane when stuck in slow moving traffic. The system isn't designed for city streets but roads with clearly marked lanes and no pedestrians or cyclists. Ford claims, based on the company's simulations, Traffic Jam Assist could cut journey times by 37.5%. It is also promised that the system will ensure the driver stays alert and in control.
Once at your destination Parking Assist will help you leave your car in a suitable space. Currently it helps parallel parking but Ford is working on an enhancement for perpendicular spaces. The enhancement will be introduced in the short term. When in perpendicular parking mode the system will measure spaces for width. Audible and visual signals alert the driver to the presence of a suitable space. The driver then selects reverse and operates the clutch and brakes while the car steers into the space.
Both Traffic Jam and Parking Assist are designed to use sensors and technology already fitted to some of Ford's cars. Bill Ford, the company's Executive Chairman said, "We'll increasingly take advantage of the car as a rolling collection of sensors to reduce congestion and help prevent accidents".