Planet Ford in Spring has some exciting news! Self-driving cars may be closer to our reality sooner than we think, thanks to the Argo AI and Ford collaboration. The Ford Fusion Hybrid is the third-generation test vehicle for this self-driving vehicles project.
Advanced Tech
This Ford Fusion Hybrid has been redeveloped to be equipped with advanced technology. Argo AI and Ford have altered the third-generation of test vehicles with a significantly upgraded sensor suite that includes new sets of radars and cameras with higher resolution and higher dynamic range. Due to the higher resolution and the upgraded software, the Fusion Hybrid test vehicle is better at detecting and classifying what’s ahead at greater distances than before.
Another recent upgrade on the newest test vehicles is the brand-new computing system. This system offers far more processing power than previous generations. The computing system has improved thermal management systems that produce less heat and noise for riders in the vehicle. Thus, smarter, quieter test vehicles have been developed.
Possibly the most important upgrade, Argo AI has equipped the Ford Fusion Hybrid test vehicles with additional braking and steering systems that aid in maintaining vehicle control in case of emergency. These systems serve as precautionary measures in the event that the units function fail to ensure they may safely brake or pull over as necessary.
Test Cities
Argo AI and Ford have been testing the Fusion Hybrid test vehicles in major cities Argo AI is operating in such as Miami, Palo Alto, Washington D.C., Pittsburgh and Detroit. Working in Detroit provides an advantage to Argo AI and Ford as Ford conducts engineering operations in Detroit and the city serves as the home for Ford’s self-driving efforts. Additionally, Detroit roads are not uniform with defining aspects such as the roads in Washington D.C. or Pittsburgh. In Detroit, you may see roads with roundabouts, multi-point intersections, unmarked roads and more. These factors challenge the test vehicles and force them to reason through navigating these obstacles while also predicting the actions of other drivers.
The team at Planet Ford in Spring (serving The Woodlands, Cypress, greater Houston, Aldine, Conroe, Tomball) are excited to see where the future of the automotive industry is going. We are happy that Ford can be an integral part in paving the road for autonomous vehicles. Stay up to date on Ford news by connecting with us on social media.