Coming soon to a vehicle we might get??

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There have been some interesting features and functions added to recent US Ford models, some of which may well find their way here either in an imported model or as additional technology in our existing cars. Amongst them are:

Hands-free Tailgate (2013 Escape)

There's nothing like hands-free access when your hands are full. You can avoid going through the hassle of searching for keys or stopping to put your packages down. With the available hands-free liftgate and Intelligent Access key on you, just kick your foot under the bumper and the power liftgate can automatically open, providing easy access to the cargo area.

Intelligent Access Key (Focus, Fiesta, Escape etc.)

Intelligent Access with push-button start streamlines the whole process of opening the door to your vehicle and starting the ignition. Simply have the key fob in a pocket or purse, or anywhere else on you. Once inside, press the brake pedal, hit the start button and you're good to go.

Multi-contour Seats (Fusion)

Who hasn't felt achy and fatigued after sitting in a car for a long time? Now, with available multi-contour front seats with Active Motion®, you don't have to. This system helps reduce muscle-fatigue in your legs and lower back by using a subtle rolling-pattern massage. For added comfort, the driver can customise the seven air chambers in the seat back and seat bottom.

Active Grille Shutters (Escape, Focus, Taurus)

Active Grille Shutters close to reduce the aerodynamic drag on the vehicle caused by air travelling through the radiator. This results in increased fuel efficiency. The shutters open only when the engine needs cooling. When closed aerodynamic drag is reduced by approximately 6%.

Trailer Sway Control (Escape, Explorer)

Trailer sway control feature works with AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™ (RSC®), using the sensor that measures yaw motion to determine if the trailer is swaying. If necessary, trailer sway control applies precise asymmetric braking or adjusted engine torque to help bring both vehicle and trailer under control.

Blind Spot Monitoring System (Taurus, Explorer)

Ford offers cutting-edge technology in the available BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert to help make driving convenient. BLIS® is designed to use radar at the rear of the vehicle in the rear quarter panels to help detect a vehicle in a blind-spot zone. If a vehicle is detected, the system alerts you with a warning light in the appropriate side view mirror. Cross-traffic alert uses radar to detect vehicles approaching from the sides when you're slowly backing out of a parking spot or driveway. When it detects vehicles approaching from up to 45 feet away, it sends an audible warning and a visual display in the corresponding mirror and a signal in the message centre.

Inflatable Rear Saferty Belts (Explorer)

A world-first in safety and comfort. Introducing the world's first automotive production inflatable rear outboard safety belts. They're the latest evolution in safety and comfort from Ford. In the event of a frontal or side crash, the inflated belt is designed to deploy in less than the blink of an eye. Its unique design helps distribute crash force energy across more of the occupant's torso than a traditional belt, which helps reduce the risk of injury while providing support for the head and neck. After deployment, the belt remains inflated for several seconds before dispersing its air through the pores in the air-bag. Inflatable safety belts are compatible with child safety seats. Because inflatable belts are not as large as traditional front air-bags, they can fill at a lower pressure and at a slower rate. Ford research showed that more than 90 percent of people who tested the inflatable safety belts found them to be similar or more comfortable than a conventional belt because the belts feel padded and softer.



Source: Ford Media