Ford Takes Spotlight: Probe Begins on Mustang Mach - E Driver Assistance After Fatal Crash

Mar 22, 2024 12:12 AM EDT

YELLOW FORD MUSTANG PARKED ON THE DRIVEWAY — (Photo : PEXELS/Ishan Kulshrestha)

Federal safety regulators started an investigation into the fatal crash of a Ford Mustang Mach-E in Texas that occurred in February. This probe is being conducted while authorities look into the facts surrounding a deadly collision in Texas using a Ford SUV that may have been employing assisted-driving technology.

Possible Cause: Assisted -Driving Technology

As reported in CNN, the usage of an advanced driver assistance system may have had a role in the recent tragic incident involving a Ford Mustang Mach-E in San Antonio, Texas, which raised questions, as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said on Monday.

Federal safety regulators are taking notice of driver assistance features, which automakers have promoted as a way to lower accident rates. However, they are worried that drivers may be relying too much on these technologies, which could be causing some accidents

The NTSB provided initial information indicating that the Ford collided with the rear of a stationary Honda CR-V in a traffic lane on Interstate Highway 10. According to a San Antonio police report, the Ford had "partial automation" engaged at the time of the crash.

Sadly, according to the police report, Austin resident Jeffrey Allen Johnson, 56, who was operating the Honda CR-V, was taken to the hospital and subsequently declared dead. Ford highlights the possibilities of its BlueCruise hands-free system in particular driving situations by describing it as cutting-edge technology that can be operated on 97% of US and Canadian highways without intersections or traffic signals.

A Ford official highlighted the company's commitment to safety, stating that they have vowed to completely assist with any future investigation, are actively gathering all pertinent data, and swiftly reported the occurrence to the NHTSA.

According to the Barron's report, the inquiry is still ongoing, and it is not yet known if autonomous driving technology caused the collision. This may deal a further blow to industry expectations for the broad application of self-driving technology, underscoring the continuous challenges and scrutiny associated with the advancement of autonomous driving systems.

Ford Mustang Mach- E

According to Car and Driver, Car and Driver reports that the price of the 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E, which reflects the variety of amenities and customizability options available within the model lineup, starts at $45,390 and may go up to $65,390 depending on the chosen trim and available extras.

The design of the Mustang Mach-E includes the battery in a skateboard-style layout. This optimizes space for both passengers and cargo, offering a generous and versatile interior. The sleek dashboard features a striking digital gauge cluster and a prominent vertically oriented touchscreen.

While a spacious pocket beneath the floating flip-up armrest between the front seat passengers adds to the practicality of the cabin. Furthermore, the vehicle's load bay behind the rear seats provides 29 cubic feet of cargo room, expandable to 60 cubic feet when the back seats are folded down.

The range of standard and optional features includes customizable ambient interior lighting, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, wireless charging, a panoramic sunroof, and a front trunk lined in hard plastic, serving as a convenient and easy-to-clean storage space that can double as a cooler.