Magna International has received a 2016 Ford World Excellence Award in the “Smart” category for the innovative technology featured in the 2016 Ford F-150 Pro Trailer Backup Assist system.
“Ford’s World Excellence Awards allow us to recognize suppliers who demonstrate a strong commitment to quality, performance and teamwork,” said Hau Thai-Tang, Ford Motor Co. group vice president, global purchasing. “Magna has helped Ford deliver a breakthrough year, and we are thankful they are a part of our One Ford team.”
Magna’s automated trailer backup assist system allows a driver to safely back-up a trailer by steering the trailer using a control knob while the truck steers its own wheels. Ford’s system is enabled by Magna’s rear view camera, which measures the angle between truck and trailer, as well as Magna’s image processing algorithm, which calculates trailer angle by detecting target decals on the trailer.
“This award is further recognition of the innovative technologies that we bring to market as a global leader in vision-based Advanced Driver Assistance Systems systems. Our trailer backup assist system demonstrates how we are applying smart technology – providing drivers and vehicles with information they need, when they need it. We are honored that Ford, a longtime customer of ours, has given us this award,” said Swamy Kotagiri, Magna chief technology officer and president of Magna Electronics.
The system also was a recipient of the CES 2016 Innovation Award for its outstanding performance in the Vehicle Intelligence category.
