Ford Launches Retrofit Camera activated ‘Smart Mirror’ for LCVs

Paul Myles

TU-Editor

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6th April 2021

Ford has introduced its first retrofit camera activated ‘smart mirror’ for its Transit range of LCVs.

Owners of both the Transit and the Transit Custom van models are being offered the option of a cab mirror boasting a panoramic rear view. The display mirror should help drivers to spot cyclists, pedestrians and other vehicles that may be behind them, even when windowless rear doors or partitions are in the way.

The display shows a live feed from a camera on the rear of the van and features automatic brightness control for optimum visibility in daylight and at night. The system offers a field of view that is twice the width of a conventional rear-view mirror. This helps drivers to be more aware of their surroundings, for example, when approaching roundabouts, changing lanes or checking before merging or turning into side streets.

The mirror could be particularly beneficial for delivery drivers making frequent drop-offs in cities, where they are more likely to encounter those on bikes, e-scooters or on foot. Data shows vulnerable road users accounted for 70% of road accident fatalities in Europe’s urban areas in 2019.

Owen Gregory, director, commercial vehicle aftersales, Ford of Europe, said: “Providing our drivers with maximum visibility – especially in urban areas where there is so much to look out for – increases their confidence and is a key part of making journeys safer for them and for other road users as well.” The mirror, which will cost about $930, is available for Ford Transit and Transit Custom vans fitted with windowless rear doors. Any Ford dealer can order and fit the system, which is compatible with Transit vans built from 2014 and Transit Custom models built from 2012.

— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in Europe. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_