Ford Hands-Free Driving Investigation: Feds Question Ford

Federal Safety Inquiry into Ford’s BlueCruise System

The leading federal authority on vehicle safety has formally requested extensive information from Ford regarding its BlueCruise hands-free driver-assistance technology. This action represents the latest phase in an ongoing investigation initiated over a year ago, prompted by two tragic fatal accidents linked to the system’s software.

Investigation Details and Information Request

On June 18th, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) dispatched a letter to Ford containing a comprehensive set of 25 inquiries. These questions range from basic requests, such as a complete inventory of vehicles equipped with BlueCruise, to more detailed demands.

The NHTSA is also seeking access to internal Ford documentation pertaining to the accidents that triggered the investigation. This includes materials related to the system’s development, any modifications implemented to the software, and further relevant data.

Escalation to Engineering Analysis

This “information request” marks the first formal communication of this type since the NHTSA elevated the investigation’s status in January to an “engineering analysis.” This escalation is a necessary procedural step before the agency can potentially mandate a vehicle recall from Ford.

A representative from Ford has confirmed the company’s full cooperation with the NHTSA throughout this investigative process.

Background of the Investigation

The ODI initiated the investigation in April 2024 following two separate fatal crashes. In both instances, the drivers were actively utilizing BlueCruise when their vehicles collided with stationary objects. These incidents represent the first reported fatalities directly attributed to the use of BlueCruise.

How BlueCruise Operates

Ford restricts the use of BlueCruise to pre-mapped highway segments. The system employs a combination of cameras, radar sensors, and sophisticated software to manage steering, speed, and braking functions on designated highways.

An in-cabin camera, integrated with an eye-tracking system, is designed to monitor driver attentiveness and ensure focus on the road. The system is offered to consumers at a cost of $495 annually or a one-time purchase price of $2,495. It is currently available on the Ford Explorer, Ford Expedition, Ford F-150, and the Ford Mustang Mach-E.

Concerns Regarding Stationary Object Detection

The crashes earlier in 2024 have brought into question the efficacy of Ford’s system in accurately identifying stationary obstacles. This issue mirrors a long-standing challenge faced by Tesla’s driver-assistance software.

NHTSA Findings and Limitations

In January, when upgrading the investigation, the NHTSA identified “limitations in the detection of stationary vehicles in certain conditions.” The agency also noted that BlueCruise’s performance “may be limited when there is poor visibility due to insufficient illumination.” Notably, both fatal crashes occurred during nighttime driving.

Specific Information Sought by NHTSA

The recent letter from the NHTSA specifically requests further details from Ford regarding the BlueCruise software’s “logic and/or algorithms used in the detection and classification of hazards in front of” the vehicle.

Response Deadline

Ford is required to submit its responses to the 25 inquiries by August 6th. Failure to comply may result in the imposition of civil penalties.

Available Models

• Ford Explorer
• Ford Expedition
• Ford F-150
• Ford Mustang Mach-E