Cars Ahead Can Now Deliver Warnings to Drivers Behind

There are many times when knowing what is around the corner could be useful. But for drivers that knowledge could be critical. Now, thanks to our new connected car technology, it is also a reality.

Local Hazard Information (LHI) allows drivers to prepare for and potentially avoid dangers on the road.*

When drivers ahead encounter sudden tailbacks, accidents or spilled loads, the driver behind – and possibly out of sight – is given advance warning. This could also apply to everything from freak hailstorms, to sudden flooding, or even landslides.



Previous traffic incident alert systems have relied on drivers to input information in order to generate alerts. LHI works autonomously, without the need for any driver interaction, to generate information and issue warnings.

The triggers for the system come from what is happening in the cars ahead. It could be that airbags have been activated, hazard warning lights are flashing, or windscreen wipers are in operation.

Joerg Beyer, executive director, Engineering.

“What makes Local Hazard Information different is that it is the cars that are connected – via the Internet of Things. There is no reliance on third party apps. This is a significant step forward. Warnings are specific, relevant and tailored to try to help improve your specific journey.”

Hazards are only shown – via the dashboard display – if the incident is likely to impact on the driver’s journey. LHI is designed to be more beneficial to drivers than hazard information from current radio broadcasting systems, which often deliver notifications not relevant to them.

LHI technology is being rolled out across most of our passenger vehicle line-up this year and is available on the new Ford Puma that this week was named What Car? Car of the Year 2020. ** Crucially, the benefit will not be limited only to those travelling in our vehicles. Information sent can be used to alert drivers of other manufacturers’ vehicles, and vice-versa.

* Driving assist features such as Local Hazard Information are supplemental and do not replace the driver’s attention, judgment and need to control the vehicle.

** Local Hazard Information is enabled by the FordPass Connect on-board modem and is complimentary for the first year following the purchase of a new Ford Puma; thereafter a licence fee is payable as part of the connectivity bundle.

The on-board modem will be connected at the time of vehicle delivery. Customers may choose to opt in/opt out of certain data sharing.

Local Hazard Information data provided by HERE Technologies.

Read more Ford technology stories, or explore Ford Puma

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