The Ford Territory continues to set new levels of vehicle safety with the introduction of the first reverse camera on an Australian manufactured vehicle.

Mounted within the appliqué on the tailgate, the wide-angle camera provides a clear view of the area immediately behind the vehicle.

A digital interface module is used to convert the image so it can be displayed on the Interior Command Centre TFT colour screen.

"Territory continues to set the trend in introducing features designed to keep it at the forefront of Australian automotive design," said Ford Australia Product and Development Vice President Trevor Worthington.

"Territory was the first Australian vehicle to incorporate the advanced safety features of Dynamic Stability Control and also the first to include side curtain airbags.

"The addition of a reverse camera adds even more technology to provide peace of mind motoring for our customers."

Worthington said customer research showed a reverse camera was a welcome feature on Territory.

"The idea of including a reverse camera in Territory was met with overwhelming enthusiasm when we trialed the idea with customers.

"They saw it as the ideal solution to a potential issue, and recognised its ability to enhance the versatility and convenience of Territory.

"Typical comments from the customers we spoke to highlighted that a reverse camera reduced potential issues relating to safety when reversing an SUV.

"The reverse camera can also prove an invaluable aid when backing up to hitch a trailer or caravan."

Worthington said the image from the rear of the vehicle was displayed on the ICC screen immediately when reverse gear was selected.

"The camera covers a wide field of view of the area behind the car and is mounted in a position that provides the driver with a clear view of the area behind Territory, including the ground directly below the bumper, to a distance of about 15 metres.

"The wide angle of the camera – measuring about 130 degrees – also means the area immediately outside the width of Territory can also be seen."

Worthington stressed the reverse camera should not be used as a reversing aid, and there was no substitute for performing a head check and mirror check before reversing.

"Due to the wide angle properties of the lens, the camera does not provide an accurate view of distance."

"Its primary purpose is to provide vision of the area immediately behind the vehicle that cannot be seen using mirrors or head checks."

The reverse camera will be a standard feature on Territory Ghia AWD and RWD, and available as an option on the Territory TS AWD and RWD.

Disappointly, due to the camera requiring the ICC screen to display the image, the reverse camera will not be available on TX versions of Territory.