Ford develops adjustable pedals
Posted on 05/19/2008 under: Technology, Ford
Ford has developed a new feature which could mean safer and more comfortable motoring at the flick of a switch – adjustable pedals. For some drivers, adjusting just seat and steering wheel does not achieve the comfort or level of control for safe and enjoyable driving.
This adjustment improves comfort and control for drivers who find that the pedals are too far away when seat and steering wheel are ideally set.
Adjustable pedals are also an extra convenience in cases where a vehicle is driven regularly by two or more people. Different sized drivers can be accommodated without having to make multiple changes to the seating position and mirrors.
Thomas Svensson, Ford brake system development engineer, says: "For some customers finding a seating position which is a comfortable distance from both pedals and steering wheel is difficult. With adjustable pedals, drivers can tailor their position precisely and easily using the convenient seat-mounted switch."
The adjustable pedal system uses an electrical motor to move the pedals, and the control switch is located on the side of the seat cushion. Its 'zero position' is the same as with fixed pedals, so the same maximum amount of legroom is available. All adjustments bring the pedal bank closer to the driver's seat.
This system is available as an option on new Ford Focus and C-MAX with either manual or automatic transmissions.
Source: Ford
