Ford continues to find new ways to improve its vehicles. The Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection is one of its latest innovations and one that is greatly appreciated. With this technology, pedestrians will be safer. The vehicle can now detect a pedestrian and work to avoid a frontal collision in an effort to minimize the severity of or completely eliminate the collision.
This technology first became available in 2015 in Europe and provides drivers with a warning if they are about to collide with a pedestrian. If the driver doesn’t react in a timely manner, the vehicle brakes automatically engage in an effort to stop the collision. This is one of several driver-assist technologies found on Ford vehicles today, and a person may visit ennis dealerships to see them in action.
In addition, Ford vehicles available at these dealerships might come with a lane-keeping system, Blind Spot Information system, and more. Keeping people safe while on the road is of great importance to the company. These technologies are one of several ways the company hopes will help achieve this goal.
The Pedestrian Detection Technology
This technology makes use of radar and cameras to view the road in front of the vehicle. When it detects a collision risk, the driver receives both an audible and visual warning. If the warnings are ignored, the vehicle applies full braking force in an attempt to prevent the collision. If contact is made, the severity of the collision should be less.
The technology works to reduce the risk of rear-end collisions, regardless of the speed at which the vehicle is traveling. The pedestrian detection feature benefits drivers going at lower speeds. Ford recognized the need for this technology and found a way to incorporate it into the company’s vehicles, along with other driver-assist technologies offered today.
Why is This Technology Needed?
Pedestrians are at high risk of an accident today. In fact, 2022 saw the most pedestrian deaths since 1981, even with advances in technology designed to protect them. Over 7,500 people lost their lives that year while they were out walking. However, pedestrian deaths have been on the rise for many years now. America saw a 77 percent increase in these deaths in the period from 2010 to 2021. Other traffic fatalities only jumped by 25 percent.
Limitations of the Technology
Drivers cannot rely solely on this technology. It is meant to help the driver, not replace them. The system may not function fully under certain driving conditions, such as when there is little light. In addition, it doesn’t always detect cars moving in another direction, and weather conditions impact its effectiveness.
Many of the pedestrian deaths reported in 2022 occurred after dark, so drivers must remain vigilant. The rise in SUVs and passenger trucks may also play a role in these accidents, although that has not been confirmed. This technology is only one measure that can help reduce these deaths in the future.
Ford cares about more than those men and women who drive its vehicles. It also cares about those who are around these vehicles, which is why pedestrian detection technology has been a priority within the organization. The company also offers other driver-assist technologies to keep people safe and continues to carry out research and development to advance this goal. It will be interesting to see what the company comes up with in the future.
