Ford, MIT to research ways technology can reduce driver stress

Ford, MIT to study driver stress

DEARBORN, Mich. — Ford Motor Co. and researchers with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology are studying ways technology can strengthen the connection between the driver and the vehicle and reduce stress from behind the wheel.

The automaker is working with MIT to develop vehicles with more features that put the driver at ease — sensing a driver’s mood, any distractions or health problems that could hinder safe driving.

Ford said the six-month study will work on ways to reduce driver stress through the use of vehicle technology, focusing on features in the 2010 Lincoln MKS.

MIT researchers said the study is aimed at developing a more aware car — helping the vehicle be more aware of the driving conditions and the state of the driver to fundamentally improve driver safety.