The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said on Wednesday that they have initiated an investigation into a fatal crash involving a Ford Mustang Mach-E and two parked cars on the I-95 in Philadelphia, which occurred on March 3.

This inquiry is part of a broader examination of safety concerns surrounding advanced driving aids, following another incident in San Antonio, Texas, on February 24, where a Mach-E rear-ended a stationary Honda CR-V.

Investigating Advanced Driving Aids

Ford’s BlueCruise system, an advanced driving aid allowing hands-free operation on many North American highways, is under close examination. The NTSB’s efforts include collaboration with Pennsylvania State Police, who have not yet released a statement regarding the incident.

Ford has recognized the ongoing investigation, learning of the Philadelphia crash through communication with the NTSB and has informed the National Highway Transportation Safety Association (NHTSA) in compliance with regulations regarding fatal accidents involving advanced driving systems.

“We are researching the events of March 3 and collaborating fully with both agencies to understand the facts,” Ford said.

The NHTSA has yet to comment on the investigation.

Broader Concerns Over Safety

This investigation joins a series of probes by the NTSB into the safety of advanced driver assistance systems, including Tesla’s Autopilot, highlighting the growing concern over the safety of automated driving technologies.

The goal of these investigations is to enhance the safety and efficacy of advanced driving aids. The NTSB aims to develop comprehensive guidelines and regulations for the integration of these technologies into vehicles, ensuring they contribute positively to road safety.

This series of investigations by the NTSB including the fatal Ford Mach-E crash reflects growing concerns over the safety of automated driving technologies and their implication in road accidents. Such scrutiny is essential in advancing the development of safe, reliable advanced driving aids, ultimately paving the way for their safer use on roads nationwide.

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