Ford’s “Rollercoaster Test” ensures drinks stay in the cup – or open bottle
Studies show that drivers who are not properly hydrated make the same number of errors as people who are over the drink driving limit*. Experts say we should double our liquid intake to stay safe behind the wheel, and Ford has a unique way of making that happen. As an addition to the one million miles of cup holder testing on public roads during new model development, engineers also use a “Roller Coaster Test” to ensure that lattes, fizzy drinks and cups of water don’t spill while we are on the move.
The test – during which designers and engineers take to Ford’s test track in Merkenich, Germany – subjects hundreds of different cups to 5g forces in their cup holder – equivalent to riding a theme park coaster on a high-speed slalom course before being driven at top speed.
Martin Dawid, manager, Body Engineering, Ford of Europe
“For drivers, being able to easily reach for a favourite drink is a fundamental part of a comfortable journey. But more than that, staying hydrated on the move helps drivers stay focussed on the road ahead.”And for those about to experience a holiday hangover when the daily grind starts again, Ford’s Science of Sound playlists can come to the rescue. In a study conducted jointly with Spotify, drivers across Europe listened to different commuting playlists then had their mood analysed by Amy Belfi, a cognitive neuroscientist from New York University. She found that sad songs with a driving beat worked especially well, giving drivers a mood‑boost that can last for up to two hours after the journeys end, so choose your tunes wisely and make the end of your holiday just a little happier.
* In tests on driving simulators, thirsty drivers made double the number of errors, compared with those who had not drunk sufficient liquids.
See more tech stories, or more fun stories
No comments:
Post a Comment