Ford Expands BlueCruise: Semi-Autonomous Driving Becomes Accessible on 4 New Models in Europe

Ford launches BlueCruise system on four new models – what it means for drivers in Romania

Ford is taking a major step towards democratizing assisted driving technology in Europe. Following the successful introduction of BlueCruise on the Mustang Mach-E, the American brand is announcing that this Level 2 (hands-off, eyes-on) technology will be available on four other popular models from spring 2026: Puma, Puma Gen-E, Kuga and Ranger PHEV.

This expansion marks a significant evolution, giving a wider range of Ford customers access to more relaxed and less tiring highway driving.

How BlueCruise Works

BlueCruise is a Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) that enables hands-free driving on certain pre-mapped road segments, known as Blue Zones. The system does not replace the driver, but rather assists them.

•     Hands-off, eyes-on: Although the driver can take their hands off the wheel, an infrared camera inside the car constantly monitors gaze and head position to ensure attention remains on the road. If the driver is not paying attention, the system issues warnings and eventually cancels BlueCruise and slows the car.
•     Complex technology: The system uses a combination of cameras, sensors and radar to identify road markings, traffic signs, road conditions and surrounding traffic. It controls steering, acceleration, braking, keeping the car centered in the lane and at a safe distance from the vehicle in front.
•     European Coverage: BlueCruise is currently approved for use in 16 countries in Europe, on a network of over 135,000 kilometers of motorways designated as Blue Zones.

European Context and Availability

The BlueCruise expansion follows its approval by the European Commission, propelling Ford’s system as one of the most widely used Level 2 ADAS systems in the region. Availability on the new models, Puma, Puma Gen-E, Kuga and Ranger PHEV, will be conditional on the optional Driver Assistance Pack being selected and will likely require a monthly or annual subscription, similar to the current model on the Mustang Mach-E (which includes a 90-day free trial).

BlueCruise Situation in Romania: Half Benefits

Although the news of European expansion is exciting, the situation in Romania is specific, dictated by national legislation.

According to existing information, Ford customers in Romania can:

1. Purchase the BlueCruise system when purchasing a compatible model (currently Mustang Mach-E, and from 2026 the four new models).
2. Use BlueCruise on highways in the 16 European countries where the system is legalized and where there are Blue Zones.

However, it is essential to remember:

• The use of BlueCruise on public roads in Romania is NOT permitted due to the imperative restrictions of the legislation in force regarding traffic on public roads.

Although Level 2 assisted driving technology is advanced, Romanian road legislation does not yet allow the use of hands-free driving, even if the driver's eyes are on the road (eyes-on). In Romania, the driver remains fully responsible for driving the vehicle, and any semi-autonomous system is considered a mere aid, requiring hands to be on the wheel at all times.

Conclusion and Perspectives

The expansion of BlueCruise to volume models such as Puma and Kuga demonstrates Ford's commitment to making semi-autonomous technology accessible to the masses in Europe.

For Romanian customers, the purchase of BlueCruise represents a major benefit in international travel on European highways. However, in order for Romanian drivers to benefit from the hands-free experience on national territory, an update of the legislative framework is necessary to explicitly regulate the use of Level 2 assisted driving systems, recognizing their safety and capabilities in pre-approved Blue Zones. Until then, the function on Ford models remains a "holiday option" for Romanian drivers.