Ford Takes On Tesla With Hands-Free Driving Features in Mainstream Models Across Europe | Carscoops

      Ford's BlueCruise is set to extend to small SUVs in Europe, with plans to enhance its "hands-off" system across 135,000 kilometers of highways.

      Ford is introducing BlueCruise to the Puma, Kuga, and Ranger models in Europe, allowing drivers to operate their vehicles with hands-off and eyes-on while traversing a significant stretch of highways. This feature will be included in the optional Driver Assistance Pack, available starting in spring 2026.

      The company is broadening its "hands-off" driving technology, demonstrating how quickly high-end features are becoming accessible in more everyday vehicles. BlueCruise will now be available on Ford’s most affordable SUVs in Europe, enabling consumers to experience advanced driver assistance without needing to opt for pricier models.

      In addition to the Puma and the electric Puma Gen-E, this system will soon be implemented in the Kuga compact SUV and the Ranger PHEV midsize pickup through the optional Driver Assistance Pack. BlueCruise debuted in Europe with the Mustang Mach-E in 2023 and has since expanded from the UK to 16 countries across the continent.

      Beginning in spring 2026, Ford's small and compact SUVs alongside the midsize pickup will include this hands-free driving system. As a result, only the VW-based Capri and Explorer EVs, as well as the Transit/Tourneo range and the internal combustion engine Mustang, will remain without this technology.

      The BlueCruise, which operates on the Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control system, allows drivers to release their grip from the steering wheel while still watching the road. It controls acceleration, braking, and steering, using cameras and sensors to keep track of traffic, lane markings, and the driver’s attention through head position and gaze monitoring.

      In Europe, BlueCruise can be utilized on more than 135,000 kilometers (84,000 miles) of highways designated as “Blue Zones.” For instance, one could journey from Stockholm to Rome, covering 2,000 kilometers (1,500 miles) across six countries, totaling about 25 hours of hands-free driving.

      Globally, Ford and Lincoln vehicle owners have accumulated over 888 million kilometers (552 million miles) with BlueCruise, although most of this use has likely occurred in North America.

      The company notes that this technology will be available in “selected new model year vehicles” for the Puma, Puma Gen-E, Kuga, and Ranger PHEV starting spring 2026. Information on subscription options and pricing for the Driver Assistance Pack will be revealed closer to the launch date.

      Currently, BlueCruise is accessible in select European markets, including Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Great Britain, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, and Sweden.