Ford Motor Co. said Tuesday about its new self-parking technology, which it announced will debut as an option on the 2010 Lincoln MKS sedan and the new seven-passenger Lincoln MKT luxury crossover vehicle. The technology uses ultrasonic sensors on the front and rear of the vehicle, combined with electric power steering to angle and guide it into a snug parking space — all with the push of a button.
Ford isn’t the first to introduce cars that practically park themselves. Toyota Motor Corp.’s Lexus luxury line has a video camera-based parking system that can calculate whether the vehicle has enough clearance for a particular spot. But Ford’s technology is easier to use and works in downhill parking situations, unlike competing systems, according to Ford’s president of the Americas, Mark Fields.
“This one-touch function will be much safer to use and less intimidating,” Fields said. “It’s all part of our strategy to introduce smart technology to a vehicle that will make our lives easier.” The driver will still need to shift the transmission and operate the gas and brake pedals, as a visual or audible driver interface advises about the proximity of other cars, objects and people. Still, the driver never has to touch the steering wheel.
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