Ford Smart Mobility: The Autonomous Car According to Ford

Autonomous Fusion Hybrids use the absolute latest radar, cameras and lidar (extremely precise radar) to get its bearings in its environment while constantly updating the data contained in its computer.

Another camera for detection – this one is inside the car.

Another camera for detection – this one is inside the car.

Unfortunately, we were unable to “drive” this autonomous car. At this four-way stop, our car waited a quite a while for another car stopped on our left to go in front. I would have gotten tired of waiting long before the Fusion Hybrid.

An engineer and his laptop. The various cameras and lasers constantly scan the surroundings to guide the car along its route, but also to add information that can be useful later on. For example, if the wind pushes a garbage can onto the road, the system will take note. If it is removed the next time the car passes, it won’t take it into account. If it’s still there, the information will be integrated into the environment until it is removed.

The trip programmed by Ford was very short and took place partly on public roads. As a manufacturer, Ford does not need a special permit. However, a Ford representative must absolutely be behind the wheel.

Ford has set up a public transit service (maximum 6 to 8 people) that works on the same principle as Uber.

Among the numerous aspects of Ford Smart Mobility, there’s a GoBike service that, strangely, seems to work like Montreal’s Bixi system!

Like it or not, we are more and more interconnected with others and our environment.

Mark Fields, president and CEO of Ford.

Bill Ford, executive chairman of Ford.

Dan Ariely, a professor of psychology and behavioural economics, was one of the best speakers over the two days. Both funny and relevant, he talked about human motivation, thus setting the table for the six other conferences.

Most of the conferences were held at Ford headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan.