Ford, a beloved brand among car enthusiasts, exited the Indian market in 2021. Since then, many Ford owners have focused on upgrading their existing vehicles rather than purchasing new models. Much like Volkswagen Polo enthusiasts, Ford owners are enhancing their EcoSport and Endeavour models with updated features such as new headlights, bumpers, and grilles from newer models. Notably, an EcoSport owner named Satya, also known as Nightraven, has taken his modifications to the next level by installing a level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) in his 5-year-old EcoSport. Satya, a chemical engineer from Hyderabad currently working in Germany, leveraged the parts-sharing practices across different Ford models and accessed Ford’s international parts catalogue to accomplish this ambitious project.
According to Satya, sourcing the necessary parts involved extensive cross-referencing and reliance on various resellers. For components not available through official Ford channels, he turned to AliExpress. Since 2019, Satya has made numerous modifications to his car, but the most significant is the fully functional level-2 ADAS suite. This system includes features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, auto high beam assist, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, and cross-traffic alert. Unlike cosmetic upgrades, installing the ADAS required precise engineering and placement of critical components such as cameras and sensors.
Satya worked on this project in his home garage, with assistance from his father and brothers for some installations. The retrofitting process was challenging, involving careful planning and sourcing of various parts. Key components for the ADAS system included a blind spot monitoring system from an old Ford F150, along with an adaptive cruise control radar, camera, and 12-channel parking system from a Fiesta. Additional elements like the wiring harness and mounting bracket were sourced from a Focus. Some major concerns during the installation were the placement of blind spot sensors and drilling holes for the autonomous parallel parking system. The process also required careful flashing of the ECU and installation of cracked codes.
Also read : 2024 Ford Endeavour matte black unveiled before official India launch
Satya shared videos showcasing the adaptive cruise control and lane keep assistance features working on his car. Despite the meticulous care taken during the modifications, these alterations are considered illegal under the MV Act 1988. For those interested in similar upgrades, Satya has provided a detailed guide on TeamBHP. He estimated the total cost of the ADAS system to be around Rs 50,000, which covered only the parts. Key expenses included Rs 8,000 for the ADAS camera, Rs 7,000 for the mounting bracket, Rs 12,000 for the radar, Rs 12,000 for the ABS module, Rs 8,000 for the BLIS sensor, Rs 5,000 for the wiring module, and Rs 4,000 for a new steering stalk with ADAS controls.