Automaker Ford has applied for a patent to develop technology that would enable vehicles to repossess themselves if their owners have missed payments.
The patent, titled “Systems and Methods to Repossess a Vehicle,” was submitted to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in August 2021 and first spotted by The Drive.
The technology would use the vehicles’ built-in data connections to remotely disable components of the car to serve as warnings if the owner has missed payments.
Starting with features like cruise control and the infotainment system, and escalating to more essential functions such as the air conditioning system and the automated door lock/unlock system.
If payment is still not received, an unpleasant sound could play every time the owner is in the car, and the vehicle could lock them out.
The patent application also outlines the use of built-in autonomous-driving capability to help repossess the car. This could involve positioning the vehicle for easier pick-up by a tow truck or even autonomously driving it to a pre-designated location, such as the premises of the repossession agency, lending institution, or impound pound.
However, a patent application does not necessarily indicate production intent. Ford regularly submits patent applications to the USPTO, but it remains to be seen if this particular technology will be developed and put into use.
