Ford to bring eyes-off driving to its new EV platform by 2028

Ford is wading into the autonomous race against rivals like Tesla and GM.

On Wednesday evening, the Detroit automaker said it plans to introduce “Level 3” eyes-off systems to vehicles being built on its new production platform in Louisville by 2028. The first vehicle planned for the platform is a $30,000 midsize EV truck, planned for 2027.

In an interview with Reuters, Ford Chief EV and Design Officer Doug Field said the tech would not come at the $30,000 price point and would cost extra. Field said the company is still weighing just how much extra, and whether the system should be sold via a subscription model.

According to Ford, the eyes-off and hands-off tech will utilize lidar. Ford shares ticked up slightly in premarket trading on Thursday.

In August, Reuters reported that Ford rival Stellantis had shelved its Level 3 program due to high costs.