Working with drone-maker DJI, the vehicle manufacturer is running a developer challenge designed to create a rapidly deployable surveying system, initially for use by the United Nations in emergency zones inaccessible to even the most versatile vehicles.
The technology, which is based on the F-150 full-size pickup sold in the US and Canada, could allow the United Nation’s first responders to earthquakes, or tsunamis, to quickly deploy drones that are able to survey and map the hardest-hit areas, but could be rolled out to other applications.
“At Ford, we are driving innovation in every part of our business to help make people’s lives better,” said Ken Washington, Ford vice president, Research and Advanced Engineering. “Working with DJI and the United Nations, there is an opportunity to make a big difference, with vehicles and drones working together for a common good.”
