I was fortunate enough to receive 2 tickets to go along to Battersea Power Station for the Ford "Future of Safety Tour", thanks to Mumsnet. I had applied a few weeks ago, and was pleasantly surprised to be accepted. Rob was over the moon, he has always liked Battersea Power Station (something to do with Pink Floyd and Roger Taylor?!).
I had a read through of the itinerary and it looked set to be a very interesting day. A comment left on Mumsnet had made me slightly wary of how the event would turn out...but I needn't have worried.
It was very easy to find (can't really miss the venue!)...
...and the weather seemed to be holding out. When we arrived, we were immediately offered a choice of hot drinks or juices and then Debbie Chennells from Ford came and introduced herself. She explained what would be happening over the next few hours and made us feel very welcome.
The event started with everyone being invited into one of the trucks to listen to a short talk regarding the new safety features that were being introduced by Ford. It was a very interesting talk, highlighting the achievements Ford have received in their 100 year history and explaining how all the new features worked. It all sounded very futuristic and I couldn't wait to see it in action!
After the talk we were split into 2 groups. The inside of the truck had interactive boards with videos and explanations of each safety feature. One of these had a video explaining how 'Lane Departure Warning' worked. Basically if you were driving on a motorway and your car drifted out of the lane, the steering wheel would vibrate - very clever. This station had a seat and a video to watch. There was also a steering wheel so you could feel how strong the vibration was.
There were a number of other demonstrations (driver alert system, blind spot assistance etc) and also a demonstration of their new inflatable rear seat belts. There was a chance to sit down and experience how it works. The belt inflates in 40 milliseconds...very fast! When it inflated it felt very comfortable and I'm sure would help to reduce njury. I spoke to a member of the Ford team and was concerned that having a belt like this behind the children's car seat would, in an accident, cause the chair to move forward. I was assured however, that it had been tested with children's seats and did not cause a problem.
Outside the truck was the main event - the track! There were 2 cars and a small course to drive around. Rob and I went into one of the cars with an instructor and he drove us around demonstrating 3 of the new safety features and then it was my turn to try each one!
1)
Traffic Sign Recognition - As you drive along the on-board computer will let you know what traffic signs you have passed...speed limits, children crossing etc. I wasn't overly keen on this aspect, I would worry that people would become to reliant and not take notice of signs as they drive. However, as Rob pointed out, it could be handy for elderly drivers.
2)
Active City Stop - This was very clever. Basically, this feature will help to avoid low speed collisions. The car will detect if you are not about to stop, will apply the brakes and put on the hazard lights! The instructor asked me to drive at a wall...and trust the car!...and amazingly it did. As I was approaching the wall, instinctively my foot hovered over the brake, but I didn't need to use it. Perfect when you are crawling along in traffic, kids distract you and before you know it you've gone into the car in front.
3)
Active Park Assist - I have saved the best for last! This feature will parallel park your car...with just a little bit of help from you! After switching the button, I was asked to drive past 2 parked cars with a space in between them. As I approached I had to indicate right, to let the car know I wanted to park on the right hand side. As I passed the parking space, the computer indicated that we could park. I then put the car into reverse, and all I had to do was use the clutch and brake to move the car! It was surreal! The wheel was spinning round and moving into the space. The computer will tell you to stop and move forward and as long as you follow what it says and don't touch the wheel it will park you perfectly in the space! Genius!
I was interviewed after getting out of the car and I was genuinely amazed at the technology. I am not ashamed to admit, as a woman, that I struggle with parking. The parking feature would sway me to buy a Ford in the future. To not have that worry when you go out shopping to find a parking space would make it a lot easier.
The event was finished off with a lovely buffet lunch and the chance to speak to other members of the Ford team.
Thank you to Ford and Mumsnet for a fantastic opportunity - looking forward to buying a Ford in the future!
