Today’s technology is quickly catching up to today’s driver. Getting behind the wheel of the 2105 Ford F-150 showed me just how intuitive a vehicle can be in helping assist the driver.
2015 Ford F-150
The 2015 Ford F-150 is coming to a dealer near you as the “toughest, smartest, most capable F-150 yet.” Being able to talk to many of the Ford team members who worked on several of the features, I was able to fully understand the thought process and work that goes into each of the ideas. This team really knew what they were talking about and were quite obviously passionate about their job. This made it all the more meaningful when I was driving and testing out the features.
First, let’s take a look at Active Park Assist. I know that parallel parking a small car is one thing, but trying to do so in a truck can be a bit cumbersome. Without having another set of eyes outside the truck to guide me into the spot, I am not going to do very well. But, having two ultrasonic sensors in addition to electric power-assisted steering, the job is a lot easier to accomplish.
One of the incredible features that help guide you into that spot is the 360° camera. Four exterior cameras give the driver a bird’s eye view up to 7 feet around the F-150. This not only aids in parking but also helps to navigate tight roads.
Speaking of tight, how about monitoring your blind spots? BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert uses radar sensors in the taillamps (where the metal of the truck cannot interfere) to monitor those areas you may miss while driving. The sensors will trigger a sideview mirror warning light letting the driver know there is a vehicle in their blind spot. Extremely helpful when changing lanes.
And when you need to stay IN your lane, the Lane-Keeping System helps make sure you stay in the lines. Using a camera mounted between the rearview mirror and the windshield, the system can detect when the vehicle is drifting out of its lane. The driver will feel a vibration in the steering wheel as an alert to “steer straight.”
One of the most innovative features is Curve Control. This feature was developed exclusively by Ford engineers and helps drivers maintain control of their vehicles if they take a curve too quickly. The system will automatically reducing torque and apply four-wheel braking to reduce vehicle speed by up to 10 mph in approximately one second, assisting drivers to stay on their intended path. There are so many reasons why I really like this feature. I am sure it has nothing to do with my own lead foot on most curves when I pretend to be a race car driver. I mean… you know what I mean.
Finally, but most certainly the least or even last of the smart technology found in the 2015 Ford F-150 is class-exclusive multi-contour seats. Yes, please! This Built Ford Tough truck even has a soft side. After a hard day at work, long drive, or just because, you can push a few buttons and receive a back massage from your truck seat! Now THAT, my friends, is pretty awesome! Sign me up!
The Ford F-Series has been America’s best-selling truck for 37 years as well as the best-selling vehicle in America for 32 years. The new high-strength military grade aluminum alloy F-150 is sure to keep that running. Look for it at your local Ford dealer soon!
Learn more about the 2015 Ford F-150, as well as more of the new line-up, by liking Ford Motor Company on Facebook and following @Ford on Twitter.