auto

Ford plans to add 20 third-generation Fusion Hybrid autonomous vehicles (AVs) with the aim of tripling its fleet of self-driving test vehicles.

As part of its smart mobility plan, the addition of the new fleet will increase the number of vehicles to 30 that are being tested on roads in the states of Arizona, California, and Michigan.

Ford executive vice-president, global product development and chief technical officer Raj Nair said: "Using the most advanced technology and expanding, our test fleet are clear signs of our commitment to make autonomous vehicles available for millions of people.

"With more autonomous vehicles on the road, we are accelerating the development of software algorithms that serve to make our vehicles even smarter."

The company will also use a new-generation sensor technology as it strives to improve its autonomous vehicles development plans. Its autonomous vehicles are expected to run on streets of California this year.

"With more autonomous vehicles on the road, we are accelerating the development of software algorithms that serve to make our vehicles even smarter."

The vehicle’s hardware systems will be able to interact continuously with the virtual driver.

The third-generation autonomous Fusion Hybrid sedans will also have supplemental features and duplicate wiring for power, steering and brakes. These supplemental features will act as backups, if required.

The company will also use Velodyne’s latest lidar sensors on its third-generation autonomous vehicle platform, making them the first auto-specific lidar sensors capable of handling different driving situations.

The 200m sensors are called Solid-State Hybrid Ultra PUCK Auto due to their hockey puck-like size and shape.

Ultra PUCK will help validate Ford’s virtual driver software, which serves as the decision-making brain directing the vehicle systems.

The lightweight, sleek design of the sensor makes it easier to be installed on a vehicle and its improved targeted view allows the company to reduce the amount of sensors from four to two on the new autonomous vehicles.

Ford technical leader for autonomous vehicles Jim McBride said: "Adding the latest generation of computers and sensors, including the smaller and more affordable Solid-State Hybrid Ultra PUCK Auto sensors, helps bring Ford ever closer to having a fully autonomous vehicle ready for production."

Image: Ford plans to add 20 third-generation self-driving test vehicles in the US. Photo: courtesy of Ford.