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Ford's BlueCruise technology represents a groundbreaking advancement in automotive innovation, providing a sophisticated hands-free driving experience that can transform how you travel. This cutting-edge system has had a significant global impact, with over 420,000 BlueCruise-equipped vehicles logging over 213 million hands-free miles.
BlueCruise is especially beneficial for reducing driver fatigue during long journeys. This technology demonstrates Ford's commitment to combining innovation with practical, everyday benefits. Read as we share more about Ford's BlueCruise technology and what it means for your daily Red Lion, Pennsylvania, driving experience.
What Is Ford BlueCruise?
Ford BlueCruise is an advanced driver-assistance system that enables hands-free driving on premapped highways called Hands-Free Blue Zones. As a Level 2 autonomous driving system, BlueCruise combines adaptive cruise control and lane-centering technology with sophisticated cameras and sensors to provide a seamless driving experience.
The system operates on over 130,000 miles of prequalified highways across North America called Blue Zones. These dedicated routes have been specifically mapped and verified for BlueCruise operation, ensuring optimal performance and safety. To function properly, the technology requires a Connected Service plan, the FordPass App, and modem activation.
The Evolution and Current State of BlueCruise
Since its initial release, BlueCruise has significantly improved its capabilities and user experience. The latest version features improved performance in narrow lanes and curves, demonstrating Ford's commitment to continuous technological advancement. The system has earned impressive recognition, scoring 84 points in Consumer Reports' active driving-assistance evaluation, nine points higher than its closest competitor.
Recent updates have significantly improved the system's functionality. Compared to systems such as GM's Super Cruise, BlueCruise shows strength in keeping drivers engaged and providing clear information about when to use the technology, earning a 9/10 from Consumer Reports for capability and performance.
How Ford's BlueCruise Enhances the Driving Experience
BlueCruise includes many features to make driving in Red Lion and the surrounding areas easier than ever, whether you want stress-free highway driving or the latest safety technologies to keep you safe.
Hands-Free Highway Driving: The Core Feature
BlueCruise technology takes control of steering, braking, and acceleration during highway driving, creating a more relaxed experience. The system utilizes connected maps for real-time navigation assistance and features subtle in-lane repositioning that automatically adjusts the vehicle's position to maintain safe distances from adjacent vehicles.
The technology expertly manages various traffic conditions while maintaining optimal spacing and lane positioning. This sophisticated system works with the vehicle's navigation features to provide a seamless driving experience, especially during long highway journeys.
Driver-Monitoring Systems for Safety
Safety remains paramount with BlueCruise's comprehensive driver-monitoring system. An infrared camera constantly monitors your eye gaze and head position to ensure you remain attentive to road conditions. The system provides clear alerts and warnings if it detects that you're distracted.
The 360-degree camera system enhances situational awareness, while the intelligent alert system ensures smooth transitions when your intervention is necessary. This multilayered approach demonstrates Ford's commitment to responsible implementation of autonomous driving technology.
Integration With Ford Co-Pilot360 Technology
BlueCruise works seamlessly with Ford's comprehensive Co-Pilot360 technology suite, creating a robust driver-assistance platform. This integration enables enhanced functionality through features such as lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control, providing a more confident and secure driving experience.
Detailed Guide on How Ford's BlueCruise Works
Understanding how Ford's BlueCruise works ensures you get the most out of this impressive technology.
Activating and Using BlueCruise: A Step-By-Step Process
To begin using BlueCruise, you must ensure your vehicle is properly equipped and set up. You'll first need to download the FordPass App and add your Ford's vehicle identification number or VIN. Next, activate the FordPass Connect modem through the vehicle's center screen display and enable Lane Centering with Hands-Free in the vehicle settings.
To engage BlueCruise while driving, select the Adaptive Cruise Control button on the steering wheel and ensure the lane-keeping system is on. When entering a Hands-Free Blue Zone, the instrument panel will turn blue, indicating that hands-free driving is available.
Navigating Through the BlueCruise Map
BlueCruise provides clear navigation guidance through its integrated mapping system, highlighting Hands-Free Blue Zones. The technology covers approximately 130,000 miles of prequalified sections of divided highways. The system actively notifies you when entering or leaving these zones, allowing for seamless transitions between hands-free and manual driving.
Upgrades and Innovations: From BlueCruise 1.0 to Future Versions
BlueCruise has evolved significantly since its initial release, with version 1.4 dramatically reducing system disengagements for extended hands-free driving periods. Key improvements include enhanced in-lane repositioning capabilities and the addition of lane-change assist functionality. These updates reflect Ford's commitment to continuous improvement, with each new version offering enhanced performance in various driving conditions.
Vehicles With Ford's BlueCruise Technology
BlueCruise is available across a wide range of Ford vehicles, including the Mustang Mach-E, F-150, F-150 Lightning, Expedition, Explorer, Escape, Edge, Bronco, Ranger, and Maverick. Each model offers BlueCruise as either standard equipment or an optional feature, depending on the trim level.
Upcoming Models and Future Integrations
Ford continues to expand BlueCruise availability across its vehicle lineup, with plans to include the technology in more models, making hands-free driving technology accessible to a broader range of customers while continuously enhancing the system's capabilities.
Investment in Convenience: Pricing, Subscription, and Trial Information
Ford offers flexible pricing options for BlueCruise to suit different customer needs. The one-time purchase option is available for 2025 models at the time of vehicle purchase for $2,495 for a minimum of seven years of service. If you prefer subscription-based access, annual plans are available for $495, while monthly subscriptions cost $49.99 after the trial period. A three-year plan is also available for select 2024 models.
Free Trial Offerings and Renewal Rates
New 2024 and 2025 vehicles equipped with BlueCruise come with a 90-day complimentary trial period from the vehicle's warranty start date. This trial lets you experience the benefits of hands-free driving before committing to a subscription or one-time purchase.
Living With Ford's BlueCruise: Real User Experiences and Testimonials
User experiences with BlueCruise have been overwhelmingly positive, with drivers reporting reduced fatigue on long trips and enhanced comfort during daily commutes. The technology is especially beneficial for highway driving, allowing you to enjoy extended periods of hands-free operation while being fully aware of your surroundings.
The Road Ahead: Ford's BlueCruise and the Future of Automotive Technology
Ford's commitment to advancing BlueCruise technology positions the company at the forefront of automotive innovation. Ford continues to expand BlueCruise availability and adjust pricing to meet consumer needs while focusing on enhancing the technology's capabilities and coverage areas. This ongoing development ensures that BlueCruise will remain a cornerstone of Ford's advanced driver-assistance systems, providing increasingly sophisticated and reliable hands-free driving capabilities.
Experience Ford BlueCruise Technology at Ciocca Ford of Red Lion
Are you ready to experience Ford's BlueCruise technology for yourself? Visit us at Ciocca Ford of Red Lion to explore our extensive inventory of new vehicles. We'll gladly answer any questions about BlueCruise and help you arrange financing on any model that meets your needs and preferences.
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