Ford has unveiled Pro Trailer Hitch Assist, a technology that uses artificial intelligence to simplify the process of towing a vehicle and trailer. The system is a first for the industry and is now available for the F-150, F-150 Lightning, and the all-new F-Series Super Duty.
Challenges of Towing
Hooking up a truck and trailer can be challenging, stressful, and time-consuming, especially when done in front of other people. Trying to align the truck’s hitch ball under the trailer hitch coupler can be frustrating and embarrassing, whether done alone or with the help of a spotter. When looking at trucks for sale try to opt for a vehicle with modern technology to avoid such issues.
Features of Pro Trailer Hitch Assist
Pro Trailer Hitch Assist uses a back camera and corner radars to align the hitch and trailer coupler. The truck’s speed, steering, and brakes are all controlled simultaneously to bring the vehicle to a precise stop. The user simply pushes and holds a button while monitoring progress on the large center screen display of the truck.
Machine Learning Technology
Pro Trailer Hitch Assist utilizes cutting-edge machine learning technology to recognize the trailer, coupler, and hitch ball from up to 20 feet away. The system determines the best course of action as the vehicle backs up to the trailer, and computer vision is used to detect the hitch ball and trailer accurately. Once the driver confirms that the coupler is higher than the hitch ball, the truck’s control algorithms move the vehicle so that the hitch ball is positioned precisely underneath the trailer’s coupler.
Benefits of Pro Trailer Hitch Assist
Pro Trailer Hitch Assist reduces the time and stress involved in backing up to a trailer, benefiting both towing professionals and everyday users. The system’s machine-learning algorithms can recognize a wide range of trailers on various surfaces and in different weather conditions. The ultrasonic reverse parking help system warns the driver if an obstruction is detected during the maneuver.
Development of Pro Trailer Hitch Assist
Ford’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems team developed Pro Trailer Hitch Assist technology internally. The company gathered a substantial amount of data to create the machine learning algorithms, resulting in 60 patents for its research and development. Ford Power-Up software updates will be used to enhance the system’s capabilities in the future, utilizing image data from new caravan models.