Delphi’s Electronically Scanning Radar Enables Active Safety Features On New European Ford Focus

Though many vehicle manufacturers offer features like adaptive cruise control on premium vehicles, Ford is the first vehicle manufacturer to extend the benefits of Delphi’s ESR to a broader market. Launched last year in across multiple vehicle segments, Ford is now offering ESR on its new Focus.

“By offering this innovative product on the Focus, a whole new segment of drivers will benefit from the safety advantages of Delphi’s ESR,”said Diedrich von Behr, managing director of Delphi’s Electronic Controls product business unit in Europe.

Delphi’s ESR uses proven solid state technology and class-leading performance, packaging and durability to help automakers offer an adaptive cruise control system that not only enhances safety and convenience but is affordable to more buyers. Its long-range coverage provides accurate range and speed data with effective object discrimination to enable audible driver warnings when there is potential for a collision. The system also pre-charges the brakes so that they react more quickly when engaged.

Earlier ACC solutions used multiple-beam radars with mechanical scanning or several fixed, overlapping beams to attain the required view. Unlike mechanically scanning radars, electronically scanning radars have no moving parts; therefore, performance is improved. The complete radar module, including electronics and mounting features, is just 173.7 x 90.2 x 49.2 millimeters.

Delphi’s electronically scanning radar is available on multiple full- and mid-sized vehicles in Europe, the U.S. and Asia.