Ford’s F-150 Lightning pickup truck has already impressed buyers with its innovative features and impressive power. Now, the American automaker has introduced a new artificial intelligence-based technology that will make towing with the Lightning even easier.
Called Ford Pro Trailer Hitch Assist, this cutting-edge system allows Lightning owners to automatically back up and align their truck’s hitch ball to a trailer with just the push of a button. The technology uses machine learning and computer vision to automate the process of backing up to a trailer, using the truck’s rear camera and corner radars to align the hitch to the trailer while also controlling the truck’s speed, steering, and braking.
According to John Emmert, Ford Truck general manager, this new technology is a smart solution that will save time for customers. With the Pro Trailer Hitch Assist, drivers no longer need to struggle with hitching a trailer alone or with a spotter. Instead, they can get hitched more confidently and quickly, whether they’re heading to the lake or a jobsite.
The system’s ultrasonic reverse parking aid will also alert drivers if an obstacle gets in the way, and they can monitor the progress on the truck’s display screen as it backs up. Ford has developed the Pro Trailer Hitch Assist system in-house, with over 60 patents, and it will continue to improve over time with Ford Power-Up software updates.
Ford has been making trucks for over 100 years, and the Lightning EV pickup is the company’s first fully electric pickup. Since the first Lightning customers received their trucks last year, Ford has learned a lot about what owners are looking for in a pickup. According to recently gathered consumer data, Lightning owners use the bed of their pickup more often for activities like camping, hauling, and home projects.
With the introduction of the Pro Trailer Hitch Assist, Ford has once again demonstrated its commitment to innovation and meeting the needs of its customers. As Lightning owners continue to discover the many benefits of this cutting-edge pickup, they can look forward to even more advanced features in the future.
