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Ford’s latest tech could save lives by clearing way for emergency vehicles

New technology is being tested that would warn drivers of accidents ahead and say where to move to let emergency vehicles through

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Emergency vehicles could soon get to where they’re needed much more quickly if new technology from Ford enters production.

Developed with Vodafone, ‘eCall Plus’ would warn drivers of accidents ahead via the infotainment screen and advise how to make room for approaching fire engines, ambulances and police vehicles.

The tech is an advancement of ‘eCall’, which is already available in the latest Ford Focus and lets occupants call emergency services at the push of a button.

It is being developed as part of the ‘KoMoD’ (Kooperative Mobilität im digitalen Testfeld Düsseldorf) initiative in Germany – a 15 million euro (circa £13.4m) project for testing new connected car technologies.

Alongside ‘eCall Plus’, Ford is working on more technology as part of KoMoD. Named ‘Emergency Vehicle Warning’, it will allow signals to be sent from an emergency vehicle to alert drivers to its exact location.

Gunnar Herrmann, Ford of Germany chief executive, said: “Connected and automated driving are key technologies of the future. Ford has a long history of developing and testing vehicle-to-traffic infrastructure and vehicle-to-vehicle communications that can contribute to greater road safety and efficiency across the world.

“Together with Vodafone and in co-operation with the other companies involved, we will gain decisive insights on the Düsseldorf testing grounds to further advance the networking of vehicles.”

Hannes Ametsreiter, Vodafone Germany chief executive, said: “The digital revolution is bringing new forms of mobility which may help save lives on our roads.

“When cars communicate with each other, our rescue teams get a clear path forwards, so they can provide the right help at the right time in situations when every second counts.”

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