What Does Adaptive Cruise Control Mean?
2 Answers
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is an intelligent automatic control system that evolved from the existing cruise control technology. During vehicle operation, a distance sensor installed at the front of the vehicle continuously scans the road ahead, while wheel speed sensors collect speed signals. The advantage of the adaptive cruise control system lies in its ability not only to maintain the driver's preset speed but also to reduce speed as needed under specific driving conditions, even applying automatic braking. When the vehicle speed exceeds 30 kilometers per hour, regardless of how the driver is operating the vehicle, the adaptive cruise control system will intervene to maintain the preset speed. To achieve this, the system either automatically increases engine power or reduces engine power and downshifts the transmission to utilize engine braking for speed reduction.
When I first tried the adaptive cruise control in my new car, I found it quite amazing. Simply put, it's a more advanced version of regular cruise control, using radar or cameras to detect the vehicle ahead and automatically adjust the speed to maintain a safe distance. For example, after I set the speed, if the car in front slows down, it brakes on its own; when traffic speeds up, it accelerates back to the original speed. Using it on the highway means I don’t have to constantly press the accelerator or brake, making long drives much more comfortable, especially in traffic jams. However, it’s important to note that sensors may not be as accurate in heavy rain or fog, so you should always stay alert to road conditions. I also found the operation very simple—just press a button on the steering wheel, and the distance can be adjusted in three levels. Overall, it’s a feature that enhances convenience and is great for daily commuters to experience.
