Guide to Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

Adaptive Cruise Control is an advanced driving assistance system (ADAS) that adjusts your speed based on traffic.

Traditional cruise control maintains a constant speed regardless of other cars.

Through the use of sensors, ACC is able to monitor traffic levels and slow down or speed up as required.

It’s worth noting that some manufacturers use different names for ACC. You may see if referenced as one of the following:

• Radar Cruise Control
• Intelligent Cruise Control
• Dynamic Cruise Control
• Automatic Cruise Control

Despite the different names, the core functionality is the same

How Does Adaptive Cruise Control Work?

ACC relies on a combination of sensors, radars, and sometimes cameras to detect vehicles.

Here’s how it functions:

1. Activate the System. The driver sets a desired speed and a distance to maintain between vehicles.
2. Vehicle Detection. Sensors monitor the road. If another car is within the distance you have set, the system will slow your vehicle down until the desired distance is achieved.
3. Automatic Speed Adjustment. When the road clears – i.e. a car in front moves into a different lane on the motorway - your car will accelerates back to the preset top speed.

Benefits of Adaptive Cruise Control

ACC helps to prevent rear-end collisions. By automatically adjusting speed based on the traffic ahead the risk of a crash are reduced. . Some advanced systems even include collision warnings and emergency braking.

On top of this, they can help with fatigue on long drives. ACC is able to remove some of the stress by handling speed adjustments. Allowing the driver to focus on steering and road awareness.

Fuel economy is also affected. By maintaining a steady speed you can improve your vehicle’s fuel economy.

Downsides of Adaptive Cruise Control

While ACC assists with speed control, the driver remains responsible for steering and braking in unpredictable situations. So you must not become complacent.

On top of this, heavy rain, fog, or snow can interfere with radar and camera sensors. This has the chance to reduce an ACC’s effectiveness.

Is Adaptive Cruise Control Safe?

Yes, but with conditions. ACC is designed to help a driver, not to replace them.

While the system reduces the risk of collisions, drivers must always remain alert. You should be ready to take over the braking and accelerating in emergency situations.

Some modern vehicles, also have lane-keeping assist and traffic sign recognition. These tools working alongside ACC offer a semi-autonomous driving experience.

Please remember though, no system is foolproof. You as the driver is always responsible for staying in control of your vehicle.

Should You Buy a Car with Adaptive Cruise Control?

The decision comes down to you. If you do a lot of motorway driving or frequently encounter traffic congestion, ACC can be very useful.

It can help with safety, reduce fatigue, and even help you save fuel.

However, if you mainly drive in the city or short distances, it may not be a useful tool to have.

Before buying a car, check:

• If ACC is included as standard or part of an optional package.
• The system's reliability in poor weather conditions.

Adaptive Cruise Control

Adaptive cruise control is one of the most useful driver assistance technologies available today.

While it’s not a substitute for an actual driver, it can help to make driving easier.

As ACC technology continues to evolve and get better, we’re moving closer to a future where cars handle more of the driving workload.