Ford Introduces Trailer Hitching with Artificial Intelligence

Ford has introduced the all-new Ford Pro Trailer Hitch Assist, a groundbreaking technology available exclusively for the Ford F-Series. The introduction of the Pro Trailer Hitch Assist represents a significant milestone in the world of towing. By integrating sophisticated artificial intelligence into their F-Series trucks, Ford has made the process of hitching a trailer easier and more convenient than ever before.

What is Pro Trailer Hitch Assist?

With Pro Trailer Hitch Assist, drivers can rely on cutting-edge technology to take control of their truck's speed, steering, and braking, all with the simple push of a button. This industry-first feature utilizes computer vision and machine learning algorithms to automatically align the truck's hitch ball with the trailer coupler, ensuring a seamless connection every time.

How to Operate Pro Trailer Hitch Assist?

To operate the system, drivers only need to hold down a button while monitoring the progress on the truck's large center screen display. Pro Trailer Hitch Assist utilizes advanced machine learning capabilities to detect the hitch ball, trailer, and coupler at distances of up to around 20 feet. The system's computer vision algorithms then precisely identify and track these components, ensuring optimal alignment during the hitching process.

Once the driver verifies that the coupler is positioned higher than the hitch ball, the truck's control algorithms take over, guiding the vehicle into the perfect position for a successful hitch. This intuitive and automated process reduces the time required for hitching, minimizes errors, and enhances driver confidence.

 Image Source: Ford       

Additional Capabilities

Ford's commitment to continuous improvement is reflected in its use of machine learning algorithms. The Pro Trailer Hitch Assist system gathers a wealth of data on various trailer sizes, types, terrains, and weather conditions. This data is then utilized to refine and enhance the system's performance over time, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of towing technology.

In addition to its remarkable hitching capabilities, Pro Trailer Hitch Assist also incorporates an ultrasonic reverse parking aid system. This feature alerts the driver if any obstacles are detected during the backing-up maneuver, providing an extra layer of safety and peace of mind.

Ford Power-Up software updates further enhance the system's functionality. By analyzing future trailer image data, the Pro Trailer Hitch Assist system continues to evolve, offering users an ever-improving and efficient towing experience.

With features like Onboard Scales, which provide accurate payload weight measurements, and Smart Hitch, which assists in proper weight distribution, Ford continues to empower drivers with smart solutions that enhance their towing capabilities and overall driving experience.

Ford's Commitment to Innovation

Ford's in-house team dedicated countless hours to perfecting this groundbreaking technology, resulting in the acquisition of 60 patents. Their efforts have paid off, as Pro Trailer Hitch Assist offers an unmatched level of precision and efficiency in trailer hitching.

The Pro Trailer Hitch Assist joins an impressive lineup of driver-assist technologies already available for the F-Series, including the renowned Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which simplifies the process of backing up a trailer by allowing the driver to control the direction with a convenient knob.

Ford's artificial intelligence-powered Pro Trailer Hitch Assist revolutionizes the way trailers are hitched, making it easier, safer, and more efficient than ever before. With this cutting-edge technology, Ford once again sets the standard for innovation in the automotive industry, providing customers with the tools they need to tackle their towing needs with confidence and ease.

By leveraging computer vision and machine learning, Ford's Pro Trailer Hitch Assist aligns the hitch ball with the trailer coupler effortlessly, ensuring a perfect connection every time. Learn more about how this industry-first feature revolutionizes towing, reduces errors, and boosts driver confidence.