Ford Introduces More Advanced, 4th Gen Self-Driving Vehicle Based On Escape Hybrid

Ford and Argo AI have launched their fourth-generation self-driving vehicle which is now based on the Escape Hybrid platform.

Scheduled to roll out this month, the new autonomous vehicle feature the latest advancements in sensing and computing technology. Interestingly, Ford says the Escape Hybrid is the architecture that will bring its autonomous vehicle service online, which could mean we’ll see 4th gen self-driving vehicles as part of a ride-hailing service at some point in the future.

“The systems we’re incorporating into our newest test vehicles are ‘launch-intent’ in terms of the components we believe will be needed to support commercialization. What this means is that with a well-defined architecture and platform in the Escape Hybrid, our team can continuously test and refine performance over the coming years to better prepare us for launch,” Ford says in a press release.

See Also: Ford Thrilled By Volkswagen’s Investment In Argo AI

The company adds that all the lessons learned while using them “can be channeled directly into our self-driving service as soon as it starts serving customers”. Compared to its predecessors, the 4th gen self-driving vehicle features many improvements. For starters, the sensing suite benefits from even more advanced LiDAR, higher resolution cameras and more capable radar sensors. Combined, these result in improved detection of fixed and moving objects on all sides of the Escape.

Powering all these sensors and the computing systems that manage them is the increased electrification capability of the Escape Hybrid. The standard car’s underfloor liquid-cooled, high-voltage battery has been modified with additional cells to help support the total power required by the self-driving system.

Ford has also paid attention to improve the sensor cleaning system using the on-road testing experience achieved with the previous-generation test vehicles. The team has developed hidden, forced-air cleaning chambers that surround the camera lenses and LiDAR sensors to ensure their field of view is clear while providing 360-degree cleaning coverage. In addition, Ford has increased the number of spray nozzles and coverage areas for improved liquid cleaning, and increased pressure to aid the cleaning speed.

Ford says it will gradually integrate its fourth-generation vehicles into its multi-city testing efforts alongside the fleet of Fusion Hybrids in Austin, Detroit, Miami, Palo Alto, Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C.