Ford is shaping the future of robotaxis, with cars that can tell passengers exactly where to sit.
Ford Motor Company has filed a patent application for an intelligent car-sharing system that could be used in future vehicles from the brand. The document was originally submitted on February 8, 2023, officially published on December 30, 2025, and assigned patent number 12,511,586.
The concept centers on a set of smart modules integrated directly into the vehicle. Their purpose is to simplify every aspect of car sharing—from trip planning to automatically adjusting the interior for a specific user. The system can match a reserved seat with the vehicle’s seating layout, door configuration, and available onboard features.
One of the standout elements of the patent is visual guidance inside the cabin. The vehicle would be able to show passengers exactly where they should sit. This is especially useful for car-sharing services, ride-hailing platforms, and future autonomous robotaxis. By guiding passengers to the correct seat, the system reduces confusion, speeds up boarding, and helps trips start more smoothly.
Ford notes that filing patents is a standard way to protect ideas and build an intellectual property portfolio. The company also emphasizes that a patent filing doesn’t guarantee the technology will make it into production vehicles, but it does highlight the direction of Ford’s research and development in mobility services.
It’s clear Ford is betting on the digital evolution of car sharing. Solutions like this could eventually form the backbone of robotaxi fleets, where automation and passenger convenience matter more than the traditional driving experience.