Summary
- Ford BlueCruise version 1.4 offers longer hands-free driving mode and improved in-lane stability
- New software update allows for increased time in hands-free mode in inclement weather
- BlueCruise now includes new motion controller for improved steering control
- Ford claims improved driving experience with version 1.4 compared to older versions
- BlueCruise is available for select 2025 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, with a subscription fee for continued use
Article
Enhanced Hands-Free Driving Experience with Ford BlueCruise Version 1.4
Ford BlueCruise, the hands-free highway driving assistant from the American automaker, has reached version 1.4 which promises to deliver an improved driving experience for motorists. This latest software release has been designed to enhance in-lane stability and reduce disengagements, providing a smoother and more seamless driving experience on the highway. According to Ford, BlueCruise 1.4 offers the best hands-free driving experience yet, with an all-new motion controller that controls the vehicle’s steering, resulting in increased in-lane stability and longer hands-free engagements, even in inclement weather conditions like rain or direct sunlight.
Improved In-Lane Stability and Longer Hands-Free Engagements
One of the key features of Ford BlueCruise 1.4 is its ability to deliver a more natural feeling drive and increased time in hands-free mode compared to older versions of the software. In fact, BlueCruise 1.4 can stay engaged for up to eight times longer in hands-free mode compared to version 1.0, giving drivers more time to relax and let the system take control. This improvement in performance is a significant step forward in providing a seamless and stress-free driving experience for Ford owners who choose to utilize BlueCruise on the highway.
Affordable Pricing and Availability for Ford BlueCruise
For owners of compatible 2025 Ford models, the BlueCruise software will come installed from the factory, ensuring that drivers can enjoy the benefits of this advanced driving assistance system right out of the gate. Customers will initially pay $700 for a year of BlueCruise, with the price increasing to $800 per year or $75 per month thereafter. While the pricing may seem steep, it is important to note that BlueCruise only works on highways, offering a more limited scope of functionality compared to Tesla’s Full Self-Driving feature. However, for drivers who primarily travel on highways and value the convenience of hands-free driving, BlueCruise remains a compelling option.
Over-the-Air Updates and Future Expansion
In addition to being available on select 2025 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, Ford has indicated that older cars equipped with BlueCruise will receive a software update in the future, although specific details regarding which models will be eligible for this over-the-air update have not been disclosed. With nearly half a million BlueCruise-equipped vehicles already on the road globally and customers having driven over 244 million hands-free miles with the system engaged, Ford is committed to expanding the availability and functionality of this innovative driving assistance technology.
Comparison with Tesla’s Full Self-Driving Feature
While Ford’s BlueCruise remains focused on providing a hands-free driving experience on the highway, Tesla’s Full Self-Driving feature offers a more comprehensive suite of capabilities, including city street driving and additional features like Actual Smart Summon. However, the cost of entry for Tesla’s FSD is significantly higher, with an upfront purchase price of $8,000 or a monthly subscription fee of $99. For drivers who prioritize highway driving and are looking for an affordable hands-free solution, Ford BlueCruise offers a compelling alternative with its latest version 1.4 delivering improved performance and enhanced features for a more seamless driving experience.
Conclusion
Ford BlueCruise version 1.4 represents a significant advancement in the realm of hands-free highway driving assistance, with improvements in in-lane stability, longer hands-free engagements, and an overall more natural feeling drive for motorists. With an affordable pricing structure and availability on select 2025 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, BlueCruise offers a compelling alternative to other advanced driving assistance systems on the market. As Ford continues to enhance and expand the capabilities of BlueCruise, drivers can look forward to a safer, more convenient, and stress-free driving experience on the highway.
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