The Ford Puma BlueCruise Edition marks a new era in driver assistance tech, bringing hands-free autonomous driving capabilities to a broader segment of UK motorists. This latest model, now available for order, allows drivers to remove their hands from the wheel on the majority of the UK motorway network – a first for a vehicle in this price range.
Pricing and Powertrain Options
The BlueCruise Edition starts at £30,545 for the all-electric Ford Puma Gen-E (after the £3,750 Government Electric Car Grant), making it an accessible entry point to semi-autonomous driving. The petrol version begins at £33,995.
- Puma Gen-E: 166bhp electric motor, 47kWh battery, 248 miles of range.
- Petrol: 1.0-litre Ecoboost mild-hybrid engine (123bhp or 153bhp), seven-speed automatic gearbox.
This expands the availability of Level 2+ autonomous features beyond premium models like the Ford Mustang Mach-E, which has offered BlueCruise since 2023. The popular Ford Kuga will also receive a BlueCruise Edition shortly.
Distinctive Design & Interior Features
The BlueCruise Edition is visually identifiable by its exclusive Vapour Blue paintwork and standard-fit 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the cabin boasts two-tone black and Nordic Blue upholstery, adding a premium feel. A key component of the system is a camera mounted above the infotainment screen – this monitors driver attentiveness and disengages the hands-free mode if the driver looks away from the road.
How BlueCruise Works
BlueCruise is currently the only Level 2+ autonomous driving software approved for use on UK roads. Using an array of cameras and sensors, the system handles acceleration, braking, and steering hands-free within designated “Blue Zones.” These zones currently cover 95% of UK motorways, totaling 84,000 miles across 16 European countries.
Important Note: Drivers must remain vigilant while using BlueCruise; the system will automatically deactivate if it detects inattention. This ensures the technology assists, rather than replaces, responsible driving.
Ford’s Future Plans
Ford has mapped out its Blue Zones across the UK, providing a reliable network for hands-free driving. The company intends to expand BlueCruise availability to other Puma and Kuga models in the future, as well as provide over-the-air updates via Ford’s Connected Navigation. This subscription service offers real-time traffic data, enhancing the overall driving experience.
The introduction of BlueCruise to the Ford Puma represents a significant step toward wider adoption of autonomous driving features. By making semi-self-driving tech more affordable and accessible, Ford is shaping the future of motoring in the UK and beyond.
