When Lexus announced its optional Advance Parking Guidance System it was met with derision by automotive critics. Mindful of the last PR disaster, Ford has announced its own Active Parking Assist system which it calls a leap forward from the Lexus system. This system isn't camera guided, like the Lexus system. Also it allows the driver to control the braking and acceleration.
Because the Ford system doesn't control the gas and brake, it can park on a slope and requires less prep time to actually find a space. Drivers can also take over the steering duties if they start having a panic attack after ceding control to a computer.
Ford estimates that by 2012, 90% of its cars will be fitted with electronic power steering, which paves the way for more technology like Active Parking Assist. "As we use advanced technology like Electric Power Assisted Steering to improve the fuel efficiency across our vehicle lineup, we have the opportunity to introduce new comfort and convenience innovations like Active Parking Assist," according to Ford chief chassis and steering engineeer Ali Jammoul. "This is technology not for the sake of technology, but technology designed to meet the needs and wants of customers."
In addition to Active Parking Assist, the MKS and MKT feature the Blind Spot Information System (Volvo-developed BLIS -- which we think should be standard equipment on everyone else's car) and the very handy Cross Traffic Alert (which helps mere mortals avoid getting T-Boned when backing blindly out of a parking space between two massive SUVs).
Self guided parking systems aren't going to save the auto industry. What it needs are good-looking, reliable cars with great gas mileage and excellent warranties. It's all in the basics.
