Ford Expands Hands-Free BlueCruise Technology Across Multiple Models in Europe
Ford has taken a significant leap forward in automotive technology with the expanded rollout of its
BlueCruise system, making hands-free highway driving more accessible to customers across Europe. As part of Ford's effort to integrate advanced driver assistance into a wider range of vehicles, the innovative BlueCruise technology will now be available on several models, including the Puma, Puma Gen-E, Kuga, and Ranger PHEV, starting in the spring of 2026.
What is BlueCruise?
BlueCruise is a hands-free driving technology that allows drivers to engage in highway driving without needing to keep their hands on the steering wheel, provided they remain attentive to the road. Officially introduced in Europe in 2023, BlueCruise is the first of its kind to receive regulatory approval, and is now the most widely available advanced driver assistance system that offers both “hands-off” and “eyes-on” functionalities.
Key Features of BlueCruise
The BlueCruise system builds upon the capabilities of Ford's Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, which regulates steering, acceleration, braking, and lane positioning. It utilizes a set of radars and cameras that monitor road conditions, including lane markings and traffic signals. Additionally, a forward-facing camera ensures the vehicle stays within its lane and at a safe distance from other vehicles.
To ensure drivers' attention remains on the road, a driver-facing camera checks eye gaze and head position, even if the driver is wearing sunglasses. This advanced feature allows for relaxed driving during long journeys, with BlueCruise confirming that the necessary conditions are met before transitioning to hands-free operation.
Extensive Availability
With over
1 million BlueCruise-equipped vehicles already on the roads globally, Ford has reported that drivers using the technology have collectively traveled more than
888 million kilometers (approximately
552 million miles) without needing to touch the wheel. The expanded availability across more models is set to enhance the driving experience, enabling more customers to enjoy the comfort and convenience that comes with hands-free driving.
Customers can look forward to the opportunity of using BlueCruise across an expansive network of designated highways, known as
Blue Zones, which spans over
135,000 kilometers (about
84,226 miles) throughout Europe. For instance, a driver will be able to utilize BlueCruise while traveling from
Stockholm to Rome, covering an impressive
2,000 kilometers (around
1,500 miles) without hands-on driving for almost
25 hours.
Commitment to Innovative Technology
Torsten Wey, manager of ADAS features and software for Ford in Europe, emphasized the company's dedication to bringing cutting-edge technology to more drivers. He remarked, “With BlueCruise now available on five vehicle lines in Europe, we are helping make hands-free highway driving accessible to a wider array of customers.” Ford's commitment to diversifying its offerings ensures drivers can experience exceptional quality and comfort regardless of the vehicle model they choose.
Conclusion
As Ford gears up to launch the BlueCruise technology across more models, the automotive landscape is set to be transformed. The capability of hands-free driving not only enhances the overall experience of long-distance travel but also illustrates Ford’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. The anticipation for the spring 2026 availability is building among consumers, promising a new era of driving that prioritizes both convenience and safety.
For more information on BlueCruise and its benefits, please visit
Ford's official site.