Ford introduces BlueCruise assistant to the Puma Gen-E

The system was introduced in Europe in 2023 in the larger Mustang Mach-E electric model. “Since then, 16 European countries have approved its use in series production, making BlueCruise the most widely used semi-automated system of its kind in Europe. Drivers can currently activate it on more than 133,000 specially marked kilometres of motorway, known as Blue Zones,” according to Ford. The aim is to make long-distance journeys more relaxed with BlueCruise.

Ford will soon be introducing the system in its highest-volume model series. From spring 2026, customers will be able to order BlueCruise for the Puma, its electric version Puma Gen-E, the Kuga and the Ranger plug-in hybrid. “This gives drivers the opportunity to take their hands off the wheel on certain sections of numerous federal motorways, known as Blue Zones, while still paying close attention to the traffic. This applies at speeds of up to 130 kph,” Ford wrote. However, the vehicles must be equipped with the driver assistance package. The cost of the system is not yet known: “Ford will announce subscription options and prices in good time before the sales launch.”

BlueCruise uses several sensors, such as cameras and a radar system, but no lidar. BlueCruise is designed to detect lane markings, speed limits and changing traffic conditions and use this information to control steering, acceleration and braking. An infrared camera positioned behind the steering wheel monitors whether the driver is actually observing the traffic or is distracted.

Each time it is activated within a ‘Blue Zone’, the system checks whether the road markings are sufficiently visible, other conditions are suitable, and the driver is keeping their eyes on the road. If this is the case, the driver may take their hands off the steering wheel but must remain alert; otherwise, the system will shut down. “This can mean a noticeable gain in comfort and additional relaxation, especially on long journeys,” Ford specified.

“We want to make the latest technology available to as many drivers as possible. With BlueCruise and its imminent availability in five European Ford models, we are enabling even more customers to enjoy hands-free driving on the motorway,” explains Torsten Wey, Head of ADAS Features and Software at Ford Europe. “Our team of ADAS engineers has managed to transfer BlueCruise from the Mustang Mach-E to other models. This means we can offer our customers a high-quality semi-automated driving experience in even more Ford models.”

The Puma Gen-E, built in Craiova, Romania, is available in Germany from €36,900. However, the driver assistance package that is important for ‘BlueCruise’ is only installed ex-works in the top-of-the-range Gen-E Sound Edition (from €36,900). In the basic model, it costs an extra €1,250, and in the Gen-E Premium trim (from €39,400), it costs an extra €1,000.

Source: Info via email, ford.com

This article was first published by Sebastian Schaal for electrive’s German edition.