When the 2019 Ford Edge arrives at Ford retailers at the end of this month, select models will be equipped with a brand-new All-Wheel-Drive Disconnect feature from Ford that allows the crossover to seamlessly transition from the fuel-sipping two-wheel-drive system to the traction-enhancing all-wheel-drive system automatically with no need for driver input. Learn more about the AI-enhanced All-Wheel-Drive Disconnect feature below.
“The concept is pretty simple, it was the execution that was the challenge. Shifting between two-and all-wheel drive needs to be fast and seamless enough that the customer doesn’t know it is happening,” said Scott Beiring, Ford driveline applications supervisor.
AI Tech Enhances Traction, Improves Fuel Economy on 2019 Ford Edge
The All-Wheel-Drive Disconnect feature utilizes a system of computers and sensors to track a variety of variables including outside temperature, windshield wiper use, road conditions, vehicle speed, and more. Based on these inputs, the 2019 Edge seamlessly transitions into all-wheel-drive when necessary and back to two-wheel-drive when not to conserve fuel.
2019 Edge Uses “Fuzzy Logic” To Determine Drive Type
The Ford All-Wheel-Drive Disconnect system relies on a formula Ford has coined ‘fuzzy logic’ to determine when all-wheel-drive capabilities should be activated.
“’Fuzzy logic’ refers to the algorithm. It’s like you or I determining what to wear based on reading a weather forecast, where we’re going, the time of year and looking outside. In the case of the new Edge, just because the windshield wipers are on doesn’t mean all-wheel drive is going to engage. The algorithm makes the call based on a variety of things that are happening – but much faster than a person could process,” said Beiring.
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Crossover shoppers interested in the new 2019 Ford Edge can expect it to start arriving at Ford dealerships including Chris Auffenberg Ford Lincoln in Washington, MO towards the end of this month. For updates on its arrival, keep checking the Chris Auffenberg online inventory pages or stop by the dealership.
