VIDEO: Ford proves it's catching rivals with self-driving tech

Ford has published video evidence that features real-world testing to proves it's catching up with its rivals when it comes to its autonomous technology.

The short vid, filmed at a dedicated University of Michigan's proving ground, sees a fleet of specially prepared Fusions (US-spec Mondeos) navigating a mock urban environment.

Travelling at speeds of 40km/h, the self-driving Ford sedans have to deal with red lights, real pedestrians and cyclists.

From the short film, it appears all scenarios are dealt without any interaction from the driver. The vid also suggests the Fusion's self-driving hardware and software navigates the challenging course confidently and smoothly.

The secret to the Fusion's self-driving prowess? The entire city course has been geo-mapped for the Ford sedans to help it find its way around.

Thanks to the high-definition mapping the Fusion's can "see" round tight corners where cameras and lidars can't quite read the road.

Ford says it plans to offer the fully autonomous 'Level 4' driving capability on its vehicles by 2021 allowing driverless motoring in pre-mapped areas.

It suggests, by the time the new tech will be offered, most cities, car parks, and frequently used built-up areas will have been geo-mapped allowing its self-driving tech to work.