Ford Addresses Car Security, Links with ADT for Canopy AI Protection System

Photo credit: Ford
Photo credit: Ford
  • Ford announced it's teaming with the ADT security company in a new joint venture that will offer vehicle security systems.

  • Called Canopy, the new venture will use ADT security monitoring technology teamed with video cameras found in Ford vehicles.

  • In a video clip similar to those used to promote Ring doorbell security systems, a would-be thief is scared away by an owner who sees the interloper via cellphone and yells at him.

In 2020, the FBI estimated that stolen work equipment cost Americans more than $7.4 billion. Seeking to prevent such catastrophic losses, Ford announced today that it is teaming up with security firm ADT to launch a new joint venture called Canopy, which will use ADT's monitoring systems and Ford's video camera technology to boost in-car security.

Photo credit: Ford
Photo credit: Ford

Ford said the Canopy system will use acoustic sensors, onboard cameras, radar, and GPS to help stop theft. An onboard camera will point at the pickup’s bed or van’s cargo area and the system will use artificial intelligence to recognize and report threats while minimizing false alarms. Customers will be able to view the livestream video feed on the Canopy app, and potential threats will cause a notification to appear on the owner's smartphone. A two-way audio feature will allow owners to let thieves know they are under surveillance and, hopefully, scare them off. ADT's security monitoring team will also be notified if the system sees suspicious activity near the vehicle.

The first Canopy systems will be an aftermarket accessory designed for Ford’s trucks and vans—including the new electric F-150 Lightning and E-Transit—that owners will be able to easily install starting early next year. Canopy also aims to integrate camera security systems in Ford vehicles starting next year, and will eventually try to integrate the technology into vehicles from other manufacturers. Canopy’s systems will be sold through dealerships, major retailers, and online.

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