Let’s be honest many people find it difficult to reverse a trailer. Be it a box trailer, boat or caravan it’s an unnatural technique to master. To get it right the front wheels need to be turned in the opposite intended direction of the trailer. Many can nail this, most can’t. Checkout the scenes at a weekend boat ramp and you’ll see my point.
Remarkably Ford has created a system known as Pro Trailer Backup Assist. Factory installed on the 2016 Ford F-150 it allows the driver to steer the trailer while the vehicle does the rest.
Much like Park Assist Systems found in many cars these days the process involves automation of the steering via a series of sensors. You simply twist a dial to the left or right keeping an eye on the trailer via the reverse camera and side mirrors.
The steering wheel takes on a life of its own while you feather the throttle and brakes as required.
The system is quite sensitive and takes a few minutes to master, but I was soon piloting what is a monster truck (by Australian standards) and longish trailer like a master. Let’s hope the technology finds its way Down Under sooner rather than later.
Chris travelled to San Francisco as a guest of Ford
The OPPO Reno 11 F is OPPO’s latest mid-range smartphone and once again it is…
Optus and TPG/Vodafone get together after it didn't work out with Telstra and TPG -…
Massive news in the world of Electric Vehicles this week with Tesla laying off around…
Jack and Rose, a love story and a tragedy. The iconic Titanic disaster incorporated into…
The new-car sales race had quite a few upsets last month, according to official figures…
Finding a fun experience while on a holiday is even easier, with AirBNB announcing Icons,…