Ford Debuts Pre-Collision Brake Assist Option

Ford Motor Co. will use its 2015 Mondeo sedan in Europe to introduce the company's first system that can mitigate and sometimes automatically avoid frontal collisions with vehicles and pedestrians.

The technology includes a forward-looking camera and grille-mounted radar unit that scan the road ahead. If the devices detect a collision risk, they warn the driver with an alarm. If the driver fails to respond, the system applies as much as 100% braking to avoid impact or lessen its severity.

Ford cautions that its technology doesn't work at night, under low or harsh lighting conditions and in certain adverse weather conditions. The company plans to expand availability of the option to other Ford and Lincoln brand vehicles worldwide.