Subaru has officially launched a hands-free driving system for its Outback model in the United States, but Australian drivers will have to wait for confirmation on local availability. The new feature, named EyeSight Highway Hands-Free Assist, comes standard on Touring and Touring XT trims and will be rolled out via software update to existing owners in the US.
How the System Works
This system allows for limited hands-off driving on highways, operating at speeds up to 137km/h (85 mph) on supported roads. Unlike Tesla’s Full Self-Driving, Subaru’s system is designed only for highway use. A blue icon on the dashboard indicates when the feature is active.
Key functionalities include :
- Active lane change support
- Emergency stop assist
- Highway pre-curve speed control
The system relies on advanced driver monitoring, ensuring the driver remains attentive through a high-resolution camera and processing system. If the driver’s focus lapses, the system immediately disengages, requiring manual control. Subaru has logged over 160,000 kilometers (100,000 miles) in testing to refine the technology.
Australian Market Status
Currently, Subaru Australia has not confirmed a release date for this feature. A spokesperson stated that they are “always exploring opportunities” to bring new technologies to the Australian market, but no announcements have been made.
Australian Outback models already offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane centring, and an emergency driving stop system. However, these systems still require the driver to keep their hands on the wheel.
Why This Matters
The rollout of hands-free driving technology is a significant trend in the automotive industry. While Subaru’s approach is more conservative than Tesla’s, it represents a step toward greater driver assistance and potentially safer highways. The delay in Australian availability highlights the challenges of adapting new technologies to different regulatory environments and road conditions. The lack of immediate access may frustrate some Australian buyers, but also emphasizes the importance of safe testing and implementation before wide release.
Subaru is taking a measured approach, ensuring the system is reliable and doesn’t overpromise capabilities. This contrasts with some competitors, and suggests a focus on practicality over hype.
