Ford Gets Patent for Tech That Can Shut Down a Vehicle
New capability could shut down specific systems or even move a vehicle to the junkyard.
Ford reports future technology could make the vehicle produce an unpleasant noise until the owner addresses the issue.
IMAGE: Julissa Helmuth, Pexels
Editor's Note: Ford issued a statement on Aug. 23, saying it's no longer pursuing the patent application or the idea behind it.
Ford has been granted a patent for a technology that permits the shutdown of air conditioning, radio, cruise control and other systems for safety concerns or even nonpayment of car loans.
The technology could even enable remote control of any upcoming model connected to the internet, such as moving a car for tow pickup or self-driving it to a junkyard in the case of an autonomous vehicle, according to an earlier article in The Drive.
The patent filing suggests that future technology could make the vehicle produce a continuous and unpleasant noise until the owner takes action to address the issue, according to an Automotive News article.
Ford originally applied for the patent in August 2021 in an application titled, “Systems and Methods to Repossess a Vehicle.” The automaker formally published its application in February of this year.
Consumer advocates have criticized the technology as an overreach, noted Automotive News. But in a Bloomberg article, Ford indicated it has no current plans to use the innovative technology.
Originally posted on Auto Dealer Today
More Showroom
Used EVs Outpace New
While North American electric-vehicle sales remain down year-over-year, May sales saw a 3% increase from April’s numbers as used EVs led the market.
Read More →
New Vehicles Down for Most Brands
Healthy May sales cut into inventory as automakers kept a tight reign on supply, though some brands ended the month with excess units on the ground.
Read More →
Auto Prices Ride May Moderation
Flat ATPs and asking prices clocked in below long-term averages for the month, though some segments saw significant price gains, reported Cox Automotive.
Read More →
Mitsubishi Sets Growth Strategy, Structural Transformation
The Japanese automaker aims to 'strengthen products and technologies that embody its brand identity,' focus on its strongest markets and expand value-chain businesses 'that leverage its unique strengths.'
Read More →
Affordable, Safe Cars for Teen Drivers
Families looking to balance affordability and safety in vehicles for their teen drivers can look to the updated list of recommended vehicles by IIHS and Consumer Reports.
Read More →
Auto Dealers Feel Better But Not Great
A second-quarter Cox Automotive poll of franchised retailers and independents found better views of the current market after a good spring but anticipation of third-quarter storminess.
Read More →
Holman Opens Porsche Dealership in Miami
The North Miami store features the brand’s signature Destination Porsche design concept, combining contemporary architecture and technology to create what the auto group calls an ultra-luxury experience.
Read More →
Chicago to Gain Cadillac Rooftop in 2027
The two-story Cadillac dealership is being constructed at the former Lincoln Yards site, owned and operated by Canada-based Jack Carter Auto Group.
Read More →
Mid-Atlantic Ford Store Has New Owner
A growing Maryland automotive group is only the 93-year-old dealership’s third owner after its longtime proprietors retired.
Read More →
Porsche Dealership Breaks Ground in Illinois
Barrington Porsche will be the new location for Murgado Automotive Group’s existing Porsche dealership currently in the Motor Werks of Barrington auto mall.
Read More →