TLDR: 2024’s Level 2 BlueCruise by Ford offers hands-free highway driving, highly rated by Consumer Reports, emphasizing safety and accessibility.
This article is a summary of a You Tube video “What does ‘Hands Free Driving’ even mean?” by JerryRigEverything
Key Takeaways:
- Levels of Automated Driving: The transcript mentions five levels of automated driving, ranging from level 1 (minimal assistance) to level 5 (complete autonomy).
- Current Automaker Status: As of 2024, most automakers, including Ford, offer vehicles with Level 2 automation.
- Ford Mustang Mach-E with BlueCruise: The featured vehicle is a 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E SUV equipped with BlueCruise for hands-free highway driving.
- Consumer Reports Ranking: BlueCruise is highly rated by Consumer Reports, suggesting its effectiveness and reliability.
- Operation and Limitations: BlueCruise operates on controlled-access highways (97% across the U.S. and Canada) but is not suited for off-road conditions.
- Hands-Free Driving Experience: The driver describes the hands-free experience as initially nerve-wracking but eventually comfortable and natural.
- Driver Responsibility: Despite the automation, the driver remains responsible for vehicle control and must stay alert.
- Technology Components: BlueCruise utilizes external cameras, radar, GPS, and an infrared driver-monitoring camera to ensure driver alertness.
- Innovative Features and Accessibility: The system includes features like lane-change assistance and is designed with accessibility in mind, accommodating users with color blindness.
- Future of Automated Driving: The transcript reflects on the progression towards higher levels of automation and the importance of collaboration in achieving these advancements.
