Future Ford Vehicles Could Get Radar Based Splash Detection

Ford Motor Company has filed a patent for radar based splash detection technology that may be used in future Ford vehicles, Ford Authority has learned.

The patent was filed on January 9^th, 2024, published on July 10^th, 2025, and assigned serial number 0224509.

The Ford Authority Take

Ford has filed a few interesting patents as of late that are centered around the concept of better managing slippery surfaces, such as rain-covered roads or even off-road trails. Those filings include ideas for a rock kick up recognition system, a hydroplaning management system, and a hydroplaning prevention system, to name just a few. Now, this newly published patent presents us with a new idea, this time, for radar based splash detection technology that may be used in future Ford vehicles, too.

Here, Ford proposes utilizing a system that would use radar and cameras to detect when water is splashing up on certain parts of a vehicle, as well as how deep that water is on the road. The system would also be able to determine the intensity of such a splash, as well as how far ahead other vehicles are. The purpose behind all of this is simple – to improve visibility and prevent accidents from occurring. In fact, this system would automatically adjust the wiper speed and even be able to spray cleaner on the windshield if needed, based on the intensity of that splash.

“Submitting patent applications is a normal part of any strong business as the process protects new ideas and helps us build a robust portfolio of intellectual property,” Ford said in a statement. “The ideas described within a patent application should not be viewed as an indication of our business or product plans. No matter what the patent application outlines, we will always put the customer first in the decision-making behind the development and marketing of new products and services.”