12:21 AM
UPDATE: To see a YouTube video of Ford's Active Park Assist in action, click on this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=xW-MhoLImqg
Are you the type who will circle the block several times or drive an extra few blocks to avoid having to parallel park? Ford has an answer for you--at the push of a button.
The Lincoln MKS sedan and upcoming MKT crossover will be the first Ford products to get the Active Park Assist technology.
The system uses ultrasonic sensors at the corners of the vehicle to measure the size of the parking space and guide the vehicle into the slot, while also watching out for oncoming traffic. The driver still works the throttle and brake pedals, but the system does all the steering.
Ford says its ultrasonic system is more accurate than camera-based self-parking systems, such as one available on the Lexus LS sedan.
The key component to Ford’s system is the electric-power-assisted steering. The steering system also helps boost fuel economy by up to 5 percent, Ford says, since there is no load on the engine from a belt-driven hydraulic pump.
The Lincolns get the self-park system next summer. And Ford plans to spread the technology throughout its lineup quickly after that.
All you need to do is remember to carry some change to feed the parking meter.
