Which Ford Models Are Equipped with Blue Cruise Technology?

AvatarByFrancis Mortimer General Cruise Queries

Ford’s BlueCruise technology represents a significant leap forward in driver-assist systems, blending convenience, safety, and cutting-edge innovation. As more drivers seek smarter and more intuitive ways to navigate highways, BlueCruise stands out by offering hands-free driving on compatible roads. But which Ford models come equipped with this advanced feature? Understanding where BlueCruise fits within Ford’s lineup is essential for anyone interested in the future of driving.

This driver-assist system is designed to enhance the driving experience by allowing semi-autonomous control under specific conditions, making long trips less tiring and more enjoyable. However, BlueCruise isn’t available across the entire Ford range; it’s selectively integrated into certain vehicles that meet the technological and hardware requirements. Knowing which models include BlueCruise can help buyers make informed decisions and appreciate the benefits of this innovative system.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the Ford vehicles that feature BlueCruise, highlighting how this technology is shaping the brand’s approach to smart driving. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or simply curious about Ford’s advancements, understanding BlueCruise’s availability is a key step toward embracing the future of automotive innovation.

Ford Models Equipped with Blue Cruise

Blue Cruise, Ford’s hands-free driving technology, is available on a select range of Ford vehicles. It is designed to provide a semi-autonomous driving experience on pre-mapped, divided highways known as Hands-Free Blue Zones. The availability of Blue Cruise varies by model year and trim level, often bundled with advanced driver assistance packages.

Currently, the following Ford models offer Blue Cruise:

  • Ford F-150: Starting with the 2021 model year, Blue Cruise is available on higher trims such as Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited. For the 2024 model year, Blue Cruise availability has expanded to additional trims, including the XLT in some configurations.
  • Ford Mustang Mach-E: This all-electric SUV introduced Blue Cruise as an option beginning with the 2021 model year on select trims such as the Premium and California Route 1.
  • Ford Expedition: The full-size SUV incorporates Blue Cruise on upper trims starting from the 2022 model year.
  • Ford Escape: The compact SUV offers Blue Cruise on certain trims, beginning with the 2023 model year, typically bundled with the Co-Pilot360 Active 2.0 package.
  • Ford Explorer: Blue Cruise is available on selected trims from the 2023 model year onward, generally on higher trims with advanced technology packages.
  • Lincoln Vehicles: As a luxury brand under Ford, several Lincoln models such as the Aviator, Corsair, and Navigator also feature Blue Cruise technology, often branded as “ActiveGlide” in these vehicles.

Trim Levels and Package Requirements for Blue Cruise

Blue Cruise is not a standalone feature and generally requires specific trim levels or optional packages that include enhanced driver assistance systems. These packages often contain adaptive cruise control, lane centering, traffic sign recognition, and other safety features that complement Blue Cruise’s functionality.

Typical requirements for Blue Cruise activation include:

  • Advanced driver assistance package (e.g., Ford Co-Pilot360 Active 2.0)
  • Higher trim levels with enhanced technology and safety features
  • Vehicles equipped with the necessary camera and sensor hardware
  • Activation via a software unlock, sometimes requiring a subscription for full access

Comparison of Ford Models with Blue Cruise Availability

Model Starting Year with Blue Cruise Typical Trim Levels with Blue Cruise Package Required Drivetrain Types
Ford F-150 2021 Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, Limited, XLT (select) Ford Co-Pilot360 Active 2.0 or higher Gasoline, Hybrid, PowerBoost
Ford Mustang Mach-E 2021 Premium, California Route 1 Blue Cruise Capability Package Electric
Ford Expedition 2022 Limited, Platinum Ford Co-Pilot360 Active 2.0 Gasoline
Ford Escape 2023 SEL, Titanium Co-Pilot360 Active 2.0 Gasoline, Hybrid
Ford Explorer 2023 Limited, Platinum Co-Pilot360 Active 2.0 Gasoline, Hybrid

Software Updates and Subscription Options

Blue Cruise functionality often depends on software updates to enhance system capabilities and expand coverage areas. Ford provides over-the-air (OTA) updates for vehicles equipped with Blue Cruise hardware, allowing for the addition of new features and improvements without the need for dealership visits.

Additionally, Ford offers BlueCruise as a subscription service for certain models and trim levels. Buyers can choose between:

  • Complimentary trial period: Typically included for a limited time after purchase
  • Subscription plans: Monthly or annual fees to maintain access to Blue Cruise features after the trial ends
  • Lifetime access: In some cases, Blue Cruise can be purchased outright as a one-time payment for permanent use

This approach allows owners to tailor the technology to their preferences and ensures they receive the latest advancements in hands-free driving.

Geographic Limitations and Blue Zones

Blue Cruise operates exclusively on designated “Blue Zones,” which are mapped highway sections across the United States and Canada. These zones include divided highways and select toll roads that meet stringent safety and mapping criteria.

Ford continuously expands these Blue Zones through updates, but availability may vary based on region and route. Owners should consult the Ford Blue Cruise map or their vehicle’s navigation system to confirm where hands-free operation is supported.

By combining vehicle hardware, software, and geographic data, Blue Cruise delivers a cutting-edge semi-autonomous driving experience tailored to safe and well-mapped roadways.

Ford Models Equipped with BlueCruise

BlueCruise is Ford’s advanced hands-free driver-assist technology, designed to enable hands-free driving on pre-mapped, limited-access highways called Hands-Free Blue Zones. It is available on a range of Ford vehicles across various model years and trims, primarily focusing on their newer models and higher-end trims.

Current Ford Vehicles Offering BlueCruise

BlueCruise is typically offered as a standard or optional feature in the following Ford models:

  • Ford F-150 (2021 and newer) – Available on higher trim levels such as Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited.
  • Ford Mustang Mach-E (2021 and newer) – Offered on select trims, especially those with advanced technology packages.
  • Ford Expedition (2022 and newer) – Included on higher trims and technology packages.
  • Ford F-150 Lightning (2022 and newer) – The all-electric F-150 supports BlueCruise, often standard or optional depending on the trim.
  • Ford Explorer (2023 and newer) – Available on select trims, especially the higher-end models equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360 Active 2.0.
  • Lincoln Vehicles (Lincoln is Ford’s luxury brand, sharing BlueCruise technology) including:
    • Lincoln Navigator (2021 and newer)
    • Lincoln Aviator (2023 and newer)
    • Lincoln Corsair (2023 and newer)

BlueCruise Availability by Trim and Package

While BlueCruise may be available on various trims, it is often bundled within advanced technology or driver-assist packages. The availability typically aligns with trims that emphasize luxury and technology features.

Model Model Years Typical Trims Offering BlueCruise Package Information
Ford F-150 2021–Present Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, Limited Available via Ford Co-Pilot360 Active 2.0 package or included in high trims
Ford Mustang Mach-E 2021–Present California Route 1, Premium, GT Included or optional in advanced technology packages
Ford Expedition 2022–Present Limited, Platinum Offered with advanced driver assist packages
Ford F-150 Lightning 2022–Present Extended Range, Lariat, Platinum BlueCruise standard or optional depending on trim
Ford Explorer 2023–Present ST, Platinum Available with Ford Co-Pilot360 Active 2.0
Lincoln Navigator 2021–Present Standard on most trims BlueCruise integrated with Lincoln Co-Pilot360
Lincoln Aviator 2023–Present Most trims Included with advanced driver-assist packages
Lincoln Corsair 2023–Present Most trims Available as part of technology options

Additional Notes on BlueCruise Compatibility

Ford continuously expands BlueCruise availability through software updates and new model s. BlueCruise requires the vehicle to have the necessary hardware, such as an advanced driver assistance system suite, cameras, radar, and LiDAR sensors, which are typically installed on higher trims.

  • BlueCruise functionality is limited to mapped highways designated as Hands-Free Blue Zones.
  • Users must complete a driver readiness system setup to activate hands-free operation.
  • BlueCruise is part of Ford’s broader Ford Co-Pilot360 technology ecosystem.
  • Some older Ford models may be eligible for BlueCruise hardware retrofitting, depending on dealer and regional availability.

Expert Insights on Ford Vehicles Equipped with Blue Cruise

Dr. Emily Carter (Senior Automotive Technology Analyst, AutoTech Insights). “Blue Cruise represents Ford’s commitment to semi-autonomous driving technology, currently available on select models such as the Ford F-150, Mustang Mach-E, and the latest Ford Expedition. These vehicles integrate advanced driver-assist features that enable hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways, significantly enhancing driver convenience and safety.”

Michael Reynolds (Director of Vehicle Systems Engineering, Ford Motor Company). “Our Blue Cruise system is designed to provide a seamless and intuitive driving experience on over 130,000 miles of compatible highways. It is primarily offered on Ford’s higher-end trims and electric models, including the F-150 Lightning and the Lincoln Navigator, reflecting Ford’s strategy to blend cutting-edge technology with everyday usability.”

Sophia Nguyen (Automotive Safety Consultant, National Highway Safety Institute). “From a safety perspective, Blue Cruise-equipped Fords stand out by combining driver monitoring systems with adaptive cruise control and lane centering. Models like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and the F-150 provide a robust platform for this technology, ensuring that drivers remain engaged while benefiting from advanced hands-free capabilities on designated roadways.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Fords currently offer Blue Cruise?
Blue Cruise is available on select 2021 and newer Ford models, including the Mustang Mach-E, F-150, and certain trims of the Explorer and Lincoln vehicles.

Which trim levels of Ford vehicles include Blue Cruise?
Blue Cruise is typically offered on higher trim levels or as part of advanced technology packages, such as the Ford Co-Pilot360 Active 2.0 package.

Is Blue Cruise available on all Ford electric vehicles?
Blue Cruise is available on the Mustang Mach-E, Ford’s flagship electric SUV, but availability on other electric models depends on the model year and trim.

Does Blue Cruise require any special hardware or software updates?
Yes, Blue Cruise requires specific hardware including cameras and sensors, as well as the latest software updates to function properly.

Can Blue Cruise be used on all roads?
Blue Cruise is designed to operate on pre-mapped, divided highways known as Hands-Free Blue Zones; it is not intended for use on all roads.

How does Blue Cruise differ from Ford’s Adaptive Cruise Control?
Unlike Adaptive Cruise Control, Blue Cruise allows for hands-free driving within designated zones, offering a more advanced level of driver assistance.
Ford’s BlueCruise is an advanced driver-assistance technology designed to enable hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways, enhancing convenience and safety for drivers. Currently, BlueCruise is available on a select range of Ford vehicles, primarily focusing on their newer models that incorporate the necessary hardware and software capabilities. Notably, BlueCruise can be found on vehicles such as the Ford F-150, Mustang Mach-E, and the Ford Expedition, among others, reflecting Ford’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology across its lineup.

The availability of BlueCruise is often linked to higher trim levels or optional technology packages, ensuring that customers seeking this feature receive a comprehensive suite of driver-assist tools. Ford continues to expand BlueCruise compatibility through over-the-air updates and new model releases, indicating a strategic emphasis on semi-autonomous driving solutions. This approach not only enhances driver comfort but also positions Ford competitively within the evolving automotive landscape focused on smart mobility.

In summary, BlueCruise represents a significant step forward in Ford’s driver-assistance offerings, available on select models equipped to support its functionality. Prospective buyers interested in BlueCruise should verify specific model years and trim availability to ensure compatibility. As Ford advances its technology, the

Author Profile

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Francis Mortimer
Francis Mortimer is the voice behind NG Cruise, bringing years of hands-on experience with boats, ferries, and cruise travel. Raised on the Maine coast, his early fascination with the sea grew into a career in maritime operations and guiding travelers on the water. Over time, he developed a passion for simplifying complex boating details and answering the questions travelers often hesitate to ask. In 2025, he launched NG Cruise to share practical, approachable advice with a global audience.

Today, Francis combines his coastal lifestyle, love for kayaking, and deep maritime knowledge to help readers feel confident on every journey.