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The Ford Motor Company has always been at the forefront of technology and innovation. And, based on latest reports, it seems Ford vehicles are about to get much more interesting.
Patents files by the company’s Global Technologies subsidiary suggest the automotive giant is looking at ways to pair drones with their vehicles. While all may not come to fruition, the patents clearly indicate Ford’s ambitions.
Images on the patents depict how drones may provide various safety, comfort, and convenience features to the vehicle’s occupants. One concept shows how a drone could be deployed from the back of a Ford F-150 in the event of an accident. The device stored in the "vehicular drone storage compartment" activates during a crash, sounding an alarm and flashing beacon lights to alert first responders.
In another concept, the drone is deployed during traffic to monitor road conditions ahead and relay information to the car’s computer. Another patent shows the drone used to deliver food, saving delivery drivers precious time during peak traffic hours.
It may be some time before we see Ford’s done-integrated vehicles. However, the exciting features may be worth the wait.
Image Credit: Elena Gordeichik / Shutterstock.com