adaptive cruise control bmw aftermarket

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Active Cruise Control - is it an extra cost option?

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Can anyone confirm (or deny) that this is standard equipment in the M50 in the UK (it's listed under the Driving Assistant Professional optional package): Driving Assistant Professional is a camera and radar-based driver assistance system that offers optimum comfort and safety during monotonous or complex driving situations. It includes: Active Cruise Control with approach control regulates the distance from the vehicle in front using radar sensors in the bumper. It automatically maintains distance and queue speed in stop-and-go traffic and traffic jams down to a complete standstill. This suggests that it's not part of the 'Driving Assistant' standard package. I can't believe the standard M50 (or any i4 for that matter) doesn't have it.  

The front radar which is needed ACC is not standard. It only gets added with the driving assistance professional package.  

• Reversing Assist Camera
• Cruise Control with brake function

Cruise Control with brake function only means that it will keep your speed constant also on a downhill road, not that it will brake when a car in front of you brakes. That is TACC. For Germany there is a separate 500€ option "Aktive Geschwindigkeitsregelung mit Stop&Go-Funktion" (S05DF) that is giving just that.  

In Finland there is option 9QY (standard both for idrive40 and M50) that allows to activate active cruise control after delivery (with cost of course..). So required hardware should be there, this was also confirmed by dealer and bmw group finland, via mail. Apparently this has been option for example for X5 already. But I agree that active cruise control should be standard anyways.  

In the UK (for my spec at least) it looks like it can be added via online purchase after the car arrives. All the hardware appears to be there so it just needs activated. I'm hoping an FSC code will be available to activate it for less than what BMW want.  

That is good news. I really don't want the rest of the package.  

My salesperson: "Adaptive cruise control cannot be a standalone option. The technology is far more advanced than just maintaining distance from the car in front." If true, too bad as I find adaptive cruise control the only think I really want from the Driving Assistant Professional package.  

This is what I thought, but again in the UK, my sales person confirmed Active Cruise Control can be added after delivery. I too am not sure how this is possible, since it requires the hardware, and obviously the distance control buttons on the steering wheel. Can anyone confirm how this is all even possible after purchase of the car?  

The terminology gets mixed up a lot (active/adaptive/dynamic, etc.), but having had a look at the BMW connected drive shop, it does indeed look like you can purchase it after the vehicle is delivered ( Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function | BMW UK ) That is as long as your spec has the 9QY option, as far as I and my salesperson can tell. I just wish this was more obvious and they could say for certain. Still doesn't really answer how you control the cruise distance gap - so maybe the steering wheel comes with the distance controls as standard, but they don't do anything unless you purchase this option?  

seb835 said: The terminology gets mixed up a lot (active/adaptive/dynamic, etc.), but having had a look at the BMW connected drive shop, it does indeed look like you can purchase it after the vehicle is delivered ( Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function | BMW UK ) That is as long as your spec has the 9QY option, as far as I and my salesperson can tell. I just wish this was more obvious and they could say for certain. Still doesn't really answer how you control the cruise distance gap - so maybe the steering wheel comes with the distance controls as standard, but they don't do anything unless you purchase this option? Click to expand...

I test drove i4 M40 yesterday and wasn't happy when with the 40 you can't purchase technology plus pack which add driving assistant professional, its only can be purchased with m50 for now, dealer saying due to chip shortage they keep the goodies for premium cars now. He also referred to buying the adaptive cruise control from connected drive after delivery. On their demonstrator i4 40m there are distance control buttons on steering wheel when you press it it's says function needs to be activated through connected drive. I endup not ordering as I want to buy the technology plus pack as all my previous BMW's had driving assistance professional and parking assistance plus. Dealer manufacturing slot only for M40 not the M50 😞  

I just picked up my 2023 M440i xdrive convertible and thought that I had ordered all options available. Now I discover that the "dynamic cruise control" is not "adaptive" and that even a simple feature like the automatic switching of the headlights is not there. Thankfully I haven't sold my 2016 E550 convertible yet, which has all those features (and a V8!). I might take a loss giving that Bavarian thing back, but even basic Toyotas have those features now standard.  

Any updates here? Did anyone already purchase the ACC? How are the costs? How is it activated as the steering wheel is not prepared therefore?  

Still can’t get it. I think it may need the latest software update, without that it’s just not appearing at the online store.  

do you have the ACC buttons on the steering wheel? Or how would you change the distance?  

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Does BMW Have Adaptive Cruise Control? ACC Availability

If you’ve been considering a new luxury vehicle, you may be wondering – does BMW offer adaptive cruise control (ACC)? This increasingly popular driver assistance feature can provide added comfort and potentially improved safety on daily commutes and long highway drives. Read on to learn all about BMW’s ACC availability and capabilities across their model lineup.

What Is Adaptive Cruise Control?

Adaptive cruise control represents an evolution beyond traditional cruise control systems that simply maintain a constant driving speed set by the driver. With basic cruise, you need to brake and reset when traffic slows down ahead.

ACC uses radar, cameras and other sensors to monitor surrounding traffic flow. When vehicles ahead slow down or stop, your ACC equipped car can automatically slow as needed to maintain a preset following interval, then resume the desired speed when traffic clears. This provides a more natural driving experience, with less constant resetting.

Some ACC systems even allow your car to come to a complete stop if traffic halts, then accelerate smoothly when vehicles start moving again. This “Stop & Go” functionality offers the most convenience in heavy traffic or congested highway driving.

Which BMW Models Offer Adaptive Cruise Control?

Most current BMW passenger vehicles now come equipped with adaptive cruise control either as standard equipment, or available on higher trim levels or via optional packages:

Standard ACC

• BMW 2 Series Coupe and Convertible
• BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe
• BMW 4 Series Coupe, Convertible, Gran Coupe
• BMW Z4 Roadster

Optional ACC

• BMW 3 Series Sedan – ACC available on higher trims
• BMW 5 Series Sedan – ACC in Driver Assistance Package
• BMW 8 Series Coupe and Convertible – ACC in Driver Assistance Package

Standard on Some Trims

• BMW X3 SUV – Standard on xDrive30i and M40i
• BMW X4 SUV – Standard on xDrive30i and M40i
• BMW X5 SUV – Standard on 40i, 50i, M50i, 40e
• BMW X6 SUV – Standard on xDrive40i, M50i, 40e
• BMW X7 SUV – Standard on xDrive40i, M50i, 40i

So in summary, ACC is now available across most model lines in the BMW portfolio. Only the base trim versions or classic “i” and “eDrive” models omit adaptive functionality from the standard cruise control system.

How Does BMW’s ACC System Work?

BMW utilizes a fusion of technologies including radar, cameras, ultrasonic sensors and advanced software to make ACC possible. This sensor array constantly monitors changing conditions out to around 400 feet ahead of your vehicle’s current position.

When ACC is active, the system tracks the speed and distance of vehicles ahead. If traffic slows, the ACC automatically reduces your vehicle’s speed to maintain a preset following interval. This following time can be adjusted based on driver preferences and traffic conditions.

On most newer BMW models, the ACC allows the vehicle to come to a complete stop if vehicles ahead stop moving. This occurs smoothly and automatically based on the sensor inputs. The Traffic Jam Assistant and Stop & Go functions control the BMW safely in heavy traffic up to speeds of around 40 mph.

You can choose from several following distance settings on BMW ACC. At the closest setting of 1.8 seconds, your vehicle will be approximately 150 feet behind at highway speeds. This might be suitable in faster flowing traffic when vehicles are farther apart.

The maximum following interval is 3.7 seconds – giving around 300 feet of space at 70 mph. This setting allows for more gradual slowing and a more relaxed drive in dense traffic. The system provides enough flexibility to accommodate different driving styles and traffic scenarios.

Key Benefits of BMW Adaptive Cruise Control

There are several excellent reasons to consider a BMW model equipped with adaptive cruise control:

Reduced Driver Fatigue

Long drives can be taxing, requiring constant adjustments to your speed. ACC significantly reduces the number of pedal inputs needed to maintain safe speeds and spacing in traffic. This decreases fatigue, letting you feel more refreshed.

Enhanced Safety

ACC systems can react more quickly than humans to slowing vehicles ahead. This extra fraction of a second in response time can be crucial to avoiding rear end collisions. The more consistent speed control also improves safety for all nearby cars.

Smoother Traffic Flow

With vehicles maintaining steady speeds and gaps, traffic flow becomes more uniform. This reduces abrupt braking by other drivers that can lead to accidents. ACC adoption could continue improving commute times.

More Focus on Driving

Your attention shifts from speedometer watching to taking in more of the driving environment when ACC is active. Features like Lane Keeping Assist also work better in conjunction with ACC to maximize safety.

Ease in Traffic Jams

Stop & Go functionality takes the stress out of bumper to bumper traffic. Only needing to control steering and allowing the BMW to manage braking and acceleration helps both alertness and fuel efficiency.

Tips for Using BMW Adaptive Cruise Control

Like any advanced feature, getting the most from your BMW ACC requires understanding proper usage:

• Only activate ACC on limited access controlled highways where traffic is free flowing. Avoid winding roads or poor weather conditions.
• Adjust following distance based on speed. Use maximum following gap over 50 mph for more gradual speed changes.
• Disable ACC well in advance if you’ll need to exit or change lanes frequently. Manual driving is required for full control.
• Keep eyes on the road when ACC is active and be ready to brake as needed. Driver attentiveness is still required by law.
• In heavy rain or snow, enhanced sensor capabilities on newer BMW models can allow continued ACC use when safe and appropriate.

Following these usage tips will help you take full advantage of BMW’s adaptive cruise control for both safety and maximum driving ease.

How Does BMW ACC Compare to Rivals?

All major luxury automakers now offer adaptive cruise control to match consumer demand for these convenient and potentially lifesaving driver aids. How does BMW’s ACC stack up against key competitors?

Mercedes-Benz – Mercedes ACC works very similarly to BMW’s, with full speed Stop & Go functionality on newer models. Following distance can’t be adjusted over a set range of time gaps.

Audi – The Audi adaptive cruise mirrors BMW’s capabilities while adding traffic jam assist, which can completely stop and start the vehicle in traffic up to 40mph.

Lexus – Lexus ACC doesn’t bring the vehicle to a complete stop, requiring driver intervention at very low speeds. Operation may be less smooth than BMW’s system.

Acura – Similar to Lexus, Acura ACC slows all the way to a stop but doesn’t automatically reaccelerate when traffic moves. More driver input is required.

Volvo – Volvo ACC offers a range of following intervals like BMW, from 1 to 3 seconds. Autobraking for pedestrians is also included, but no Stop & Go feature.

Overall, BMW matches or leads many competitors in adaptive cruise technology – especially with the latest X5, X6, X7 or 8 Series models. Smooth acceleration and deceleration plus a wide range of selectable following distances provide excellent safety and ease of use.

The Future of Adaptive Cruise Control

Vehicle automation will continue progressing rapidly in coming years. How will ACC evolve along with self-driving technology?

• Expanded speed ranges – ACC may soon work at very low speeds and also at highway speeds over 100mph.
• More integration – ACC will combine inputs with lane centering, blind spot monitoring and other ADAS features for more natural automated driving.
• Camera and sensor upgrades – higher resolution cameras, multiple radar systems and more powerful vehicle to vehicle (V2V) communication will improve ACC responsiveness.
• New situations – going beyond just speed adjustment, future ACC may automatically apply maximum braking in emergencies or provide evasive steering input when needed.
• More vehicle types – heavy trucks are testing ACC, which could significantly improve highway safety and reduce accidents resulting from fatigued truckers.

These ACC enhancements will pave the way for fully autonomous vehicle operations as additional redundancies in sensors and vehicle control systems increase reliability.

What Does BMW ACC Cost?

As a standard feature on many BMWs, ACC itself doesn’t add to the purchase price or require membership fees to activate as with some automakers. However, you’ll need to choose specific packages or trim levels to get ACC included if not standard:

• 3 Series Sedan  – Adaptive cruise control pricing starts at $3000 above base price for Premium trim with Driver Assistance Package.
• 5 Series Sedan  – The base 530i doesn’t include ACC. You’ll need to add the $1700 Driver Assistance Package.
• 8 Series  – Getting ACC requires $1700 for the Driver Assistance Package on all coupe and convertible models.
• For SUV models like the X3, X4, X5 and X7, ACC comes standard on the volume selling trim levels, minimizing additional costs in most cases.

Overall ACC represents a minor expense given the benefits over a BMW’s lengthy lifespan. And the residual value boost from desirable safety features may offset the small initial price premium.

Should You Choose BMW ACC?

Adaptive cruise control has progressed from a novelty to a near requirement for most luxury car buyers. BMW has stayed at the forefront of ACC technology to provide a seamless driving experience.

For regular highway driving or commutes in congested traffic, few options deliver more daily value than BMW’s ACC equipped models. Camera and radar based systems reduce driver stress while enhancing safety through precise speed and distance management.

As BMW’s ACC capabilities continue to expand in areas like stop-and-go functionality and integration with other automated features, expect even broader adoption across BMW’s lineup. Having adaptive cruise can meaningfully improve any drive where traffic demands your full attention. Evaluating ACC should be a priority during your new vehicle research process.

As a lifelong BMW enthusiast, I founded BMW Insights in 2023 to combine my passion for the brand with my engineering degree from Munich and experience in BMW's R&D department. I now provide insider technical articles, how-to tutorials, test drives, and commentary on all things BMW. My lifelong immersion in the world of BMW allows me to offer a unique perspective for fellow BMW fans.

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Retrofit adaptive cruise control - possible?

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Hi Has anyone retrofitted adaptive cruise control to a 640d M Sport Coupe? The one I***8217;ve bought doesn***8217;t have it fitted but guessed I could retrofit with the right ***8216;modules***8217; Any ideas out there??  

I think you will find the f12/13 cars are not extensively retrofitted, some have done the instrument panel display and idrive screen. not heard of anyone doing what you require, it could well be that there are a number of features when pulled together form the adaptive cruise. If you have a good BMW dealer with tech knowledge they maybe a starting point......for my part cannot add anymore..............oh look at realoem and newtis might be able to dig in further???  

Points taken and understood....thanks for your comments  

nambM5 said: Hi Has anyone retrofitted adaptive cruise control to a 640d M Sport Coupe? The one I've bought doesn't have it fitted but guessed I could retrofit with the right 'modules' Any ideas out there?? Click to expand...

I have completed the retrofit of ACC (5AT,5AR) There are some images. Please refer to. https://www.instagram.com/p/B8gnitqpB8P/ https://minkara.carview.co.jp/userid/406478/car/2525456/5654984/note.aspx https://minkara.carview.co.jp/userid/406478/car/2525456/5656747/note.aspx https://minkara.carview.co.jp/userid/406478/car/2525456/5660990/note.aspx  

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