What does cruise control mean on a car?
1 Answers
Cruise control, also known as speed control system or autonomous driving system, functions by automatically maintaining the vehicle's speed as set by the driver without the need to press the accelerator pedal, allowing the car to travel at a constant speed. This device is particularly useful for long-distance driving on highways, as it relieves the driver from manually controlling the speed, reduces fatigue, and minimizes unnecessary speed changes, thereby saving fuel. Conditions for using cruise control: 1. Not suitable for national roads: Cruise control is ideally used on highways or fully enclosed roads. On non-enclosed roads, complex traffic conditions can compromise safety. On national roads, for example, underpowered tractors might suddenly emerge from small intersections, posing a serious threat to vehicles. In cruise control mode, drivers might not react in time. Repeated braking also disrupts the stable cruise control state, defeating its purpose. 2. Not suitable for bad weather: Avoid using cruise control during rain or snow and ice conditions. 3. Not suitable for mountainous or winding roads: Cruise control should be avoided on roads with many curves or mountainous terrain. Normally, when navigating curves, drivers need to slightly accelerate to provide more steering force. In cruise control mode, the vehicle automatically maintains a constant speed, with the throttle controlled by the onboard computer, which can be dangerous on winding roads. Under such conditions, drivers should manually control the speed. 4. Not suitable for heavy traffic: Cruise control is also inappropriate on roads with heavy traffic or poor road conditions (such as slippery surfaces, loose gravel, or roads after heavy rain). Do not use the speed control system in these situations.