In an effort to keep drivers safer, Ford has introduced 2 new features to increase drivers’ visibility and even minimize blind spot risk – Blind Spot Mirror (answering customers’ demands for better visibility) and Cross Traffic Alert with Blind-Spot Monitoring System, which is a radar-based blind spot detection system with the additional capability to assist drivers in backing up by warning drivers of impending traffic while backing out, arriving by 2009.

“Ford is delivering innovative features aiding in a better drive experience for the customer,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development. “The Blind Spot Mirror and Cross Traffic Alert with Blind Spot Monitoring System are enhancing the customer ownership experience and bringing more value to their purchase.”

According to the company, “Cross Traffic Alert uses the radar when in reverse to pick up moving objects within a 65-foot range from either the left or right side of the vehicle. The radar also works when backing out of angled parking spaces because its view is wider than just strictly sensing traffic coming at a 90-degree angle. Conventional systems have limited sideways effectiveness. When cross traffic is approaching, two warnings are given: an indicator lights up in the corresponding outside mirror and an audible alert is sounded.”