While many of us take being able to drive for granted, there are a number of visually impaired and blind drivers who have either lost or will never even have the ability to get behind the wheel. This is something that we here at Anderson Ford can empathize with, and so can the people at our favorite American automaker. That is why they have made it a goal to empower the blind and visually impaired by working with them to develop new technologies.

The first example that comes to mind is when Ford was able to help Roger Keeney, who had been blind for 21 years, behind the wheel of a brand new 2010 Ford Mustang Convertible. We can't even begin to imagine how incredible of an experience this must have been for Keeney. And, happily, Keeney is only the first of many blind drivers that Ford has gone on to include others in their search for a way to allow blind motorists their independence.

The next step for Ford was to ask 30 visually impaired and blind would be motorists to participate in a test at the Merkenich Development Center in Munich, Germany. It was there that Ford gathered valuable data for their cause. And, for the 30 participants, it was a chance to do something they had never done before: drive. And, they really did drive like they never have before. Some blind drivers clocked in speeds of up to 75 miles per hour. Their enthusiasm was truly unmatched.

Ford was looking to monitor how easy it is for a blind driver to learn the ins and outs of driving. In the end, they found that blind drivers actually adapted to the interior of a vehicle faster than drivers who are not visually impaired. Finding the clutch, gearshift, and other controls was no big deal, and this certainly is a good sign for Ford in the grand scheme of things.

And, those of you who are worried that Ford is simply instilling false hope, fear not. Ford has already developed, and it continuing to develop, a wide range of technologies that will lend themselves well to this amazing cause. Some examples include camera and radar-based safety systems, advanced satellite navigation systems and inter-vehicle communications.

Ford is working hard to prove that blind drivers can function independently. If you'd like to learn more about what lead-edge technologies are offered in many of the new Ford models that we offer on our lot at 1001 State Route 10 West Clinton, IL 61727, then feel free to browse our inventory online.

But, if you find yourself facing tough choices about specific models, like the Ford Expedition, Shelby GT500, or Ford F-250, then feel free to get in touch with us today to schedule a test drive. You can reach us by either giving us a call at (888) 715-6476 or by filling out a contact form online. And, while you're here, we'll make sure to cover everything that you can do to keep your new ride running like new... with some help, of course, from our incredible service department.

Looking for more Ford news? Make sure to check back soon and check back often; at Anderson Ford, there is more to come!