In case you didn't know, some Ford models are equipped with technology that allows your vehicle to parallel park by itself. Unfortunately, this is a technology that is set to disappear as it simply isn't used enough according to the manufacturer.
Having tried it many times, I can tell you that the precision of this technology is impressive. The only drawback is that you have to maintain control of the brake at all times. Needless to say, there are many videos of accidents caused by this function circulating everywhere on the internet.
Not popular enough
Ford is particularly attentive to its customers and very aware of trends. According to data recorded by the American manufacturer, only a small proportion of Ford owners use assisted parking. That's why the manufacturer has decided to remove this technology from its lineup.
There is also an important financial aspect to this decision as it should allow the American manufacturer to save nearly $60 per vehicle, which represents about $10 million per year. As announced by Kumar Galhotra, Ford's chief financial officer, this decision is part of a plan to eliminate several operations in Ford's factories in order to reduce production costs. In total, Ford should save over two billion dollars.
This technology was notably available on several models such as the Escape, the Mustang Mach-E, and the F-150. I find it unfortunate that this technology is not used more, as it works very well. At the same time, if it can allow the American manufacturer to save money and reinvest it in new projects, I am not against the idea.
This is not the first time that the American manufacturer has introduced a technology that has fallen by the wayside even though it offered enormous potential. I remember the famous intelligent suspension that was found on the Fusion Sport and could help you glide over potholes. In the end, this demonstrates that the American manufacturer is constantly developing new technologies. Certainly, not all of them end up in several production models, but ultimately, this is what makes Ford one of the most advanced automakers in terms of technology.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
