Ford’s ’emoji mood jacket’ keeps cyclists safe

A electronic jacket that allows cyclists to communicate their emotions to drivers via large emoji icons has been unveiled by car giant Ford.

The emojis are displayed on an LED panel on the back of the jacket allowing users to convey whether they’re happy, neutral or worried.

Indicators, and a hazard symbol can also be displayed to make other road users aware of the cyclist’s movements and possible dangers ahead.

These functions can all be controlled without the cyclist removing their hands from the handlebars, thanks to a wireless remote, featuring independent buttons that is easily mounted and removed from the bike.

The prototype ‘emoji jacket’ has been created in partnership with industrial design specialists Designworks as part of Ford’s ongoing ‘Share the Road’ campaign.

“Emojis have become a fundamental part of how we use language. Whether used to convey facial expressions, humour, or sarcasm, they have become integral to our ability to express ourselves and quickly,” said Emoji expert Dr Neil Cohn PhD.

“This jacket created in partnership with Ford Share the Road allows riders to express their feelings and creates an important emotional link between them and other road users.”