Ford’s Self-Repossessing Patent
As the technology of autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles continues to advance, it only takes one auto manufacturer to launch a system where that new ride sitting in your driveway can drive itself to the repo lot if you don’t make your payments.
Ford Motor Company could be the trailblazer for this futuristic feature as they have applied for a patent on a system that will allow vehicles to drive themselves to repo lots for late car payments. Other features of this system could include limiting functions of the vehicle (power seats, cruise control, A/C, etc.) and even locking the owner out of their vehicle.
Ford Global Technologies filed a patent application with the U.S. Trademark and Patent Office (USTPO) on August 20, 2021, which was published on February 23, 2023, for public review as part of the process.
Where'd My Car Go?
While the autonomous vehicles will drive themselves to the repo lot, the semi-autonomous vehicles may only drive a short distance to where they can be towed. If the vehicle's market value isn't worth the cost of the repossession, it could drive itself straight to the junkyard.
The other repo-related features of this system can act as warnings for people who don't have autonomous vehicles or for vehicles that are unable to drive itself away. The first to be deactivated will be the convenience features like A/C, power seats, cruise control, or the radio. Another method is playing an irritating sound through the stereo system. Then it goes on to limiting
Basically, Ford's repossession system could immobilize the vehicle and even lock the owner out.
The Why
Ford has applied for a patent because it will protect and prevent another company from using their invention. It also allows them to control of how to make, use, and sell their invention.
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