whats active cruise control

What Is Adaptive Cruise Control? Is It Worth Paying For?

We explain how adaptive cruise control works and share which systems are the best.

Stefan Ogbac Writer Manufacturer Writer Jun 02, 2020

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Today's coolest luxury car technologies often become features on mainstream cars tomorrow. Take cruise control as an example; today, nearly every new car has it except for specialized performance models and base trims of entry-level cars. But what is adaptive cruise control? And is it worth using?

How Adaptive Cruise Control Works (and Its Limitations)

Like conventional cruise control, adaptive cruise control maintains a desired speed set by the driver. However, adaptive cruise control (often abbreviated as ACC) makes things more convenient by automatically adjusting that speed relative to the speed of the vehicle ahead of you.

If a slower vehicle moves in front of you, the system will automatically slow to maintain a pre-set following distance and then accelerate again to your originally set speed once the vehicle moves out of the way. Most adaptive cruise control systems allow the driver to adjust the following distance at intervals ranging from close to far. Advanced systems integrate with the vehicle's navigation system and/or forward looking cameras to even slow around tighter curves and reduce speed if the posted speed limit changes.

Like any safety or convenience system, adaptive cruise control has limitations. As with standard cruise control, the driver is required to steer the vehicle, although many vehicles make this task easier by pairing adaptive cruise with lane keep assist). And adaptive cruise control may not be able to react quickly enough if the car ahead slows suddenly—remain ready to hit the brakes. Unexpected evasive maneuvers to avoid obstacles in the road are on you, too. Weather and debris can adversely affect adaptive cruise control if it obstructs the cameras and/or radar sensors that let the system operate.

How Can Adaptive Cruise Control Make My Commute Easier?

The most basic adaptive cruise control systems relieve the stress of operating the accelerator pedal in many cruising conditions. Newer, better systems offer stop-and-go functionality, sometimes called traffic jam assist. This allows the vehicle to comfortably continue using adaptive cruise control at low speeds, thanks to the system's ability to come to a complete stop when traffic ahead does. Many systems will deactivate a few seconds after stopping, requiring you to manually resume by pressing a button or the accelerator. The newest, best systems bundle other driver assistance technologies including lane keeping assist, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking to provide the highest level of commuter stress relief.

These state of the art adaptive cruise control systems form the building blocks for semi-autonomous driving. When a lane centering system joins the mix, the vehicle can keep itself in a single lane and negotiate gentle turns, further reducing the workload of your commute or road trip. Some automakers have also added a lane change assist function. With these, when you apply the turn signal, sensors check for traffic in the next lane, and if safe, they steer the car over and center in the next lane.

What to Look for in a Vehicle With Adaptive Cruise Control

See if adaptive cruise control has a stop and go function (also known as traffic jam assist). This feature means the it can still function when highway traffic slows to a crawl.
Pay attention to how smoothly the car accelerates and brakes on its own when a car moves in front of or out of your lane. Some systems, such as those on Audis and Subarus, allow you to adjust the tech's aggressiveness.
Assess the distance the car leaves in its closest adaptive cruise control setting at highway and lower speeds. Does it strike a balance between a comfortable distance and not being so far back that cars are constantly cutting in front of you?
Can you toggle between standard or adaptive cruise control? There are some driving conditions where an adaptive system's frequent braking and resuming can be less comfortable than normal cruise control, and having a non-adaptive option allows continued cruise functionality should the sensors become temporarily obscured.

Is Adaptive Cruise Control Self-Driving?

No. Although adaptive cruise control does much to alleviate the driver's work behind the wheel, it does not make a car self-driving . The driver must remain alert and in control for any of the unexpected conditions that could arise on the road. On the SAE's Levels of Driving Automation scale, adaptive cruise control rates at Level 1, and rises to Level 2 when coupled with lane centering—either way, nowhere close to the Level 5 which defines a self-driving car.

However, some of the newest systems are approaching Level 3, in which the driver can remove their hands from the steering wheel. The driver must remain ready to resume control at all times, but Level 3 systems will accelerate, brake, and steer the vehicle under specific conditions.

Ford's BlueCruise and General Motors' Super Cruise are two of those systems from American manufacturers. Both rely on myriad sensors and extensive software mapping of real-world roads to operate. As such, they only work on certain roads and in certain situations. Jeep has its own version in the works , too.

Tesla Autopilot is probably the most well-known semi-autonomous driving system. In a recent review comparing Super Cruise to Autopilot, we concluded that Super Cruise performs as well and in some cases better than Tesla's technology.

From overseas manufacturers, Lexus is developing its Teammate system, and Mercedes-Benz is making progress on Drive Pilot . Both offer impressive levels of assistance, but at the same time illustrate how more work remains to be done until we're in the era of self-driving cars.

Is Adaptive Cruise Control Worth It?

If you can learn to trust the tech (while always paying attention and being ready to immediately take over if necessary), adaptive cruise control could be a very meaningful upgrade. Letting the car operate the accelerator and brakes for most of your drive home from work can relieve a lot of the stress associated with driving. But, if a system is designed with driving logic that bites the brakes too hard as it comes to a stop or allows too much distance in its closest setting, you might find yourself using the tech once and never again for the rest of the time you own the car.

However, given that adaptive cruise control is becoming standard equipment on more and more vehicles, it's less of a consideration whether it's worth paying for—rather, the choice becomes whether or not you want to use it. We think you will.

What Do Automakers Call Adaptive Cruise Control?

Toyota and Lexus : Dynamic Cruise Control, Dynamic Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control; Toyota Safety Sense

Nissan and Infiniti: Intelligent Cruise Control; ProPILOT Assist

Hyundai, Kia, Genesis: Smart Cruise Control; Highway Driving Assist

Honda and Acura: Adaptive Cruise Control, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow; Honda Sensing /AcuraWatch

Subaru: Adaptive Cruise Control, Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering; EyeSight

Mercedes-Benz: Active Distance Assist Distronic

BMW: Active Cruise Control, Active Cruise Control with Stop and Go

Porsche : Adaptive Cruise Control; InnoDrive

Audi : Adaptive Cruise Assist

Ford and Lincoln : Adaptive Cruise Control With Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control; Co-Pilot360 Assist

Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac : Adaptive Cruise Control

Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler : Adaptive Cruise Control

Mazda : Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go; Traffic Jam Assist

Volkswagen : Adaptive Cruise Control; IQ.Drive

Mitsubishi : Adaptive Cruise Control; MI-PILOT Assist

Volvo : Adaptive Cruise Control; Pilot Assist

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Active Cruise Control explained

More and more cars are coming out with Active Cruise Control, but what is it and how does it work?

BY WAY OF background, Cruise Control, as opposed to Active Cruise Control, (ACC) has been around since the 1960s and is now, more or less, a standard feature on all new cars, including trucks, tractors and even large “Cruiser” type motorcycles.

The normal cruise control we’re all used to allows a driver to set a speed and then the car will maintain that speed without the driver needing to touch the accelerator pedal. Then when the driver needs to adjust the speed, they can either do so via the cruise control stalk and/or buttons on the steering wheel, depending on the make and model of vehicle. The driver can also deactivate cruise control via the brake pedal, or momentarily increase the speed, say, when overtaking, by pressing the accelerator pedal. Cruise Control may return to the preset speed if you have deactivated it by pressing the accelerator, but will always disengage entirely if you have used the brakes or changed gear in a manual. Check your car’s owner manual for confirmation of that function on your car.

Older cruise control systems simply used the throttle, so would let the car speed up beyond the target speed on downhills. Newer systems use the brakes and even gears to properly maintain the target speed up or down hill.

Now cruise control has evolved to being able to adjust its speed based on the speed of the vehicle in front. Often used interchangeably, Active Cruise Control and Adaptive Cruise Control are one and the same – as usual manufacturers like to invent different names for the same technology. At least they’re both abbreviated to ACC!

What is Active Cruise Control?

Well, it works in similar way to your regular cruise control. The driver brings the car to their desired speed and presses the set button, then the car maintains that speed. The ‘active’ part is that your car will slow down if your car detects another car in front travelling more slowly. That’s perfect for freeway driving, particularly in traffic, and longer trips. The Active component of Active Cruise Control comes in the form of a RADAR or LIDAR sensor (depending on your manufacturer’s choice of technology) in the front of the car. This sensor allows you to set the distance you want to follow the car in front, normally measured in time, typically 2, 3 or 4 seconds.

For instance, let’s say that you have your ACC set at 105km/h and a slower vehicle pulls out in front of you further up the road doing a mere 90km/h. ACC is designed to pick this up and slow your vehicle down to match the speed of that vehicle, and follow at the distance that you have set. When that vehicle moves out of your lane, and there are no other cars in front of you, your car resumes your original 105km/h. It does all this without any throttle or brake inputs from you. But the system isn’t perfect, and we’ve got more on that below…

So, is ACC helpful?

Yes. Active Cruise Control was designed with high-volume commuter traffic in mind. Where speeds are constantly changing from 100km/h to a dead stop with not much warning. It only takes one driver not paying attention for 1-2 seconds for an accident to happen. Boredom, fatigue and in-car distractions are the biggest cause of accidents on the roads today.

How much does ACC cost?

When this sort of radar technology first appeared it was as a $1500 cost option on the $220,000+ 1999-model Mercedes-Benz S-Class . Today, the average price point of cars with this type of feature as standard is approximately $60,000, so a lot of cars above that price point will feature ACC as standard, primarily European and Asian cars. The great news is that this type of technology is becoming a priority to more manufacturers, who are making it available in more affordable cars. Mazda have it as standard in both their top spec Mazda6 Atenza ($48,510+ORC) and Mazda3 Astina ($38,190+ORC), though it can’t be cost-optioned in lower models.

Subaru offer it as standard equipment on the top-spec Forrester and Outback models, and all of the Liberty range. The latter are the only vehicles in Australia that offer the feature in a sub-$30K car ($29,990+ORC). Interestingly Subaru are one of the few manufacturers that don’t use radar technology for this feature. Instead they use an optical system called Eyesight based on stereoscopic cameras placed on either side of the rear view mirror.

On the flip side you can still spend $95,000-plus on an HSV GTS and not be able to access this type of technology.

Is it a tick box on the option list?

Not necessarily. ACC will usually be part of a suite of safety features that some manufacturers refer to as ‘Forward Collision Warning’. These systems are always active and commonly include, lane departure warnings, lane departure assist, brake assist, pedestrian detection and so on. Because all these systems use primarily the same radar, laser or camera system (in some cases, a combination) as the ACC, they will be combined and marketed as a whole safety system depending on the manufacturer and the vehicle.

Do all ACC systems work the same?

No. There are a lot of variations between manufacturers and even differences from model to model under the same marque. Some ACC systems only work between 40km/h and145km/h and others can be active from stop all the way to 250km/h, requiring a touch of the accelerator to get going again if it does happen to bring you to a stop. None should be fully trusted.

Heavy rain, fog and snow can interfere with the capabilities of these systems, and heading into the sun can throw out the camera-based systems. Windy roads and cars that dive in to gaps in front of you can confuse the ACC which may not react in time. The ACC may not detect long overhanging loads on trucks, or narrow vehicles like motorcycles. It is critical to understand the limitations of the system and be sure that you are only using these systems as a back up to your own driving. Don’t think it’s a set and forget kind of thing; you must still be paying attention to what’s happening around you.

Remember your set speed too. You might have set it for 100km/h and then spent many minutes in traffic below 50. All of a sudden once the road is clear the car will accelerate… and that might take you by surprise. But overall, ACC is very useful because it means you don’t need to fiddle with the cruise control when driving in heavy traffic on freeways.

If you do own or buy a car with this feature, make sure you take some to get a feel for how it works. If you’re like me, the sensation of something else controlling the car that you’re driving will be weird for the first few times.

Is it a Gimmick?

No, it’s genuinely useful, which is not something we can say all of the latest driver aids. With every new model release, more and more of this technology is being introduced. Fully automated vehicles are already being tested in different parts of the world and what we are seeing in the market place today, are the trickle down effects from that innovation.

With tech giants Apple and Google investing heavily in this type of automation for cars, the days of drumming along on your steering wheel (Google’s automated prototype was revealed without a steering wheel, but court rulings have dictated it be set-up for manual control) to your favourite song are numbered. Shame.

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Škoda Octavia 2016 ,considerably cheaper than$30k, comes with ACC as standard equipment. Probably standard on the whole Skoda range.

Lachlan Wornes

Whether it is trying to name a car just from its exhaust note, to being able to identify it from only a partial view of a tail light, Lachlan always finds himself wanting to know more without ever having to make a conscious effort to do so. He loves to look at them, listen to them and talk about them. Somehow driving them always makes him feel excited and relaxed at the same time. Growing up in rural Victoria made for some very liberal driving experiences from a very young age, which may have something to do with the passion that still exists. After spending all his 20’s in the snow fields of North America, the 9-5, 40hr work week never really suited him. After a brief stints with Road Magazine in the UK, and Jalopnik in the US, he has found his way back home to do what he loves, where he loves to be.

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Adaptive Cruise Control: How Does It Work?

When carmakers pitched cruise control to the American public more than half a century ago, they framed it as a way to maintain a safe, consistent speed on the highway and a path to conserving fuel. Although the fuel savings were minimal, both claims were accurate.

Simple to use, all you need to do is turn on the system in your vehicle , reach your desired cruising speed, and set it. The system then assumes control of the accelerator, maintaining the set speed until the driver engages the brake. Easy peasy.

Automotive engineers tweaked around the edges of cruise control for the next 35 years. However, cruise control didn’t evolve much beyond the first system that found its way into the 1958 Chrysler Imperial.

By the early 1990s, Japanese carmakers were adding a form of forward collision warning to their cruise control, but it was still up to the driver to react and apply the brakes. Not until Mercedes-Benz developed its Distronic cruise control did cruise control with self-braking make its first public appearance. Mercedes first featured it on its 1999 S-Class.

In essence, not only did the 1999 S-Class introduce the driver-aid technology adaptive cruise control (ACC), but it also set the cornerstone of the foundation for self-driving vehicles.

Cruise control is still the more prolific of speed controls offered on today’s new cars, but adaptive cruise control has started gaining ground. More car models provide it as standard or as an available option. But, what exactly is adaptive cruise control, and how does it work? Let’s see.

What Is Adaptive Cruise Control?

Adaptive cruise control systems vary in sophistication from carmaker to carmaker and sometimes even model to model. They also vary in name. For example, Genesis calls it Smart Cruise Control, while BMW identifies it as Distance Control. However, in a nutshell, the feature holds a safe preset speed while maintaining a safe following distance from the traffic before it. ACC essentially makes commuting and road trips so much easier.

Depending on the system, here’s what else the feature can do:

Set the distance . Most systems allow you to set the following distance within parameters like one, two, or three cars.
Stop the vehicle in traffic . Some ACC systems will bring the car to a complete stop if the traffic before it stops. However, they won’t self-accelerate when traffic begins moving again.
Stop and start in traffic . Some systems will bring the vehicle to a complete stop and then automatically accelerate as the flow of traffic resumes.
Work at low speeds in city traffic . Other systems use an add-on called traffic-jam assist designed to fully function in low-speed stop-and-go traffic found on city streets or logjammed highways.
Slow down at curves . Moreover, there are ACC systems capable of working with your vehicle’s GPS mapping to anticipate approaching curves, slowing the car going into the curve if it determines the preset speed is too high.
Adjust to speed-limit variations . Some systems working in conjunction with traffic-sign recognition or GPS will adjust the speed according to speed-limit variations.
Appear in head-up display . The ACC will show up in your view for vehicles equipped with head-up display.

How Does Adaptive Cruise Control Work?

Think of ACC as cruise control with a Ph.D. It can use radar, laser, binocular computer vision systems, a forward-aimed camera, or some combination of these technologies to track the traffic ahead of your vehicle. It senses when that traffic flow slows or stops, reacting to maintain the preset following distance.

As stated earlier, some systems will bring your vehicle to a complete stop to match traffic flow. Even more intelligent systems can then accelerate as the traffic flow resumes. These are called assisting, predictive, and multi-sensor systems.

Benefits and Limitations of Adaptive Cruise Control

Warming up to ACC required a long time for us. Early systems didn’t allow for presetting the maintained following distance. Consequently, a vehicle six or seven car lengths ahead of you moving into your lane became almost an airbag-deploying event. However, as ACC systems evolved and improved, we became more accustomed to them. We now look at regular cruise control as barbaric.

Reducing driver stress : No question, the number one benefit of ACC is allowing the driver to relax a bit. The system assumes the responsibility of slowing and accelerating to adjust to traffic flow. It doesn’t mean the driver gives up control, but the system assumes the workload of keeping pace with the traffic flow.

Stop and go : With more intelligent systems, ACC assumes complete control of braking and accelerating. In other words, it can bring the vehicle to a full stop and then accelerate as the flow of traffic resumes. Some systems will disengage after stopping and leaves it to the driver to push the “Resume” button or tap the accelerator to get moving again. However, more sophisticated systems will accelerate themselves from a complete stop.

Easy to use : For drivers not able (or willing) to read a car manual before setting out on the highway, you can fiddle with the ACC system and pick it up with little practice.

Not autonomous : Regardless of an ACC system’s sophistication, the driver must stay engaged. ACC can’t read the minds of vehicles around it. It only reacts to what other cars do. Anticipating the actions of other drivers remains your responsibility.

No stop and go : ACC systems that don’t offer a full stop will slow the vehicle but require the driver to bring it to a full stop when the flow of traffic stops. Even if an ACC system does bring the vehicle to a full stop, it may still require the driver to re-engage the system to get back under way.

No lane change : An ACC system itself can’t change lanes automatically to maintain the preset speed. Therefore, if you’re not paying attention as the driver, you may find your vehicle is going several miles an hour below the set speed. This is because your vehicle has gradually pulled up behind a slow-moving car, and you have steadily slowed to its pace. This is another reason you should stay engaged.

What Is the Difference Between Adaptive Cruise Control and Self-Driving?

There continues to be plenty of confusion about self-driving or autonomous systems, what they are, and how they operate. We’ll get to that next. However, the major difference between adaptive cruise control and a self-driving system is, ACC is simply a component of a driverless system. That is to say, ACC provides automatic braking and acceleration in a self-driving system that also includes steering, and sometimes automatic lane changing.

What Is the Difference Between Level 2 and Level 3 Autonomous Driving?

We won’t take you through all levels of driving automation . They begin with no automation and wrap up with full automation, including vehicles without pedals or steering wheels. See the chart above from SAE International.

What we will contrast is Level 2 and Level 3. Spoiler alert: The difference is significant.

Level 2 – To qualify as Level 2, a vehicle must have at least two driver-assistance technologies. This typically includes ACC and another technology like lane-centering assist or lane-keeping assist . With these technologies, the vehicle can steer, accelerate, and brake on its own in certain conditions. Level 2 still requires the driver’s hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. It is the current state of automation.

Level 3 – If Level 2 is partial self-driving, Level 3 is conditional full automation. A Level 3 self-driving system uses a wide spectrum of driver-assistance features and artificial intelligence (AI). These technologies collude to react to and make decisions about the vehicles’ ever-changing situations. In a Level 3 vehicle, the driver can completely surrender control of the vehicle’s operation on specific roads. The driver must be prepared to resume control in case of an emergency but otherwise doesn’t have command of the car. That is, the driver’s hands can be off the steering wheel and their attention elsewhere.

Although the state of autonomous driving today is Level 2, a few carmakers are on the precipice of Level 3. For example, Tesla’s Enhanced Autopilot , Ford’s BlueCruise , the Mercedes Drive Pilot, and General Motors’ Super Cruise bring the potential for Level 3. A few over-the-air software tweaks will turn the potential into reality. However, like a stood-up date who is all dressed up with nowhere to go, you will not find Level 3-designated highways as of yet.

What Carmakers Call Their Adaptive Cruise Control Systems

Is anyone surprised that carmakers can’t seem to agree on a single term for adaptive cruise control? How about “adaptive cruise control?” We can sort of forgive Mercedes for its Distronic cruise control. It was first, after all. However, can someone define “distronic?” Anyone, anyone? Nope because it’s a made-up word. So, why not now use adaptive cruise control? Mercedes isn’t alone. Many carmakers use unique terms for ACC. Some call it adaptive cruise control as the root and then tack something onto it.

Here’s a rundown of the terms the various carmakers use for ACC, even those that simply call it adaptive cruise control.

Acura – Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow
Alfa Romeo – Adaptive Cruise Control Plus with full stop
Aston Martin – Adaptive Cruise Control
Audi – Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go
Bentley – Adaptive Cruise Control
BMW – Distance Control
Buick – Adaptive Cruise Control
Cadillac – Adaptive Cruise Control
Chevrolet – Adaptive Cruise Control
Chrysler – Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go
Dodge – Adaptive Cruise Control
Ford – Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go
GMC – Adaptive Cruise Control
Genesis – Smart Cruise Control
Honda – Adaptive Cruise Control
Hyundai – Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go
Infiniti – Intelligent Cruise Control
Jaguar – Adaptive Cruise Control
Jeep – Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go
Kia – Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go
Land Rover – Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go
Lexus – Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
Lincoln – Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go
Lucid – Adaptive Cruise Control with Speed Limit Assist
Maserati – Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go
Mazda – Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go
Mercedes-Benz – Distronic Plus
Mini – Adaptive Cruise Control
Mitsubishi – Adaptive Cruise Control
Nissan – Intelligent Cruise Control
Polestar – Adaptive Cruise Control
Porsche – Adaptive Cruise Control
Ram – Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop, Go and Hold
Rivian – Adaptive Cruise Control
Rolls Royce – Active Cruise Control
Subaru – Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control
Tesla – Traffic-Aware Cruise Control
Toyota – Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
Volkswagen – Adaptive Cruise Control
Volvo – Adaptive Cruise Control

Is Adaptive Cruise Control Worth It?

We say yes. This is particularly true if you do a lot of highway driving. Moreover, the more sophisticated systems with full stop and start or a low-speed traffic-jam feature work great for city driving. Typically, ACC gets included in a trim level or some sort of optional driver-assistance package on new cars. You will rarely find it listed as a stand-alone option.

For example, the Hyundai Elantra SEL ($22,795 with destination fee) offers its Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go in its optional Convenience Package ($1,900). It also includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, Junction-Turning Detection, navigation, wireless phone charging, heated front seats, and more. We’d say that’s a bargain. On the other hand, the same ACC system is standard for the $27,395 Elantra Limited.

Can I Add Adaptive Cruise Control to My Car?

Yes, you will find aftermarket adaptive cruise control kits available. Depending on the features, they range in cost from $250 to nearly $4,000. That’s just the cost of the kits. The installation will add even more. For most involved electric-system installations, it’s best to get them done by a dealership or certified mechanic . We believe that’s the case with an ACC system. Installation cost depends on the sophistication of the system and the vehicle model.

Check out the below video from our sister site Autotrader that explains what you need to know about adaptive cruise control.

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What does adaptive cruise control do?

Using radar, laser, a forward-pointed camera, or some combination of the three, adaptive cruise control systems in vehicles hold a preset safe speed, while maintaining a safe following distance.

Which cars have adaptive cruise control?

ACC is either standard or available on most new cars. Some carmakers call it by a different name. For example, BMW calls its system Distance Control. When offered as an option, adaptive cruise control is usually bundled with other driver-assistance technologies.

How do you turn off adaptive cruise control?

Turning off adaptive cruise control works differently on every car. Typically, you apply the brakes to stop using the function. You can also hit the “cancel” button or turn off the function entirely. Check your car manual for specific instructions.

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What is adaptive cruise control (acc).

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is an intelligent driver assistance feature that works as an enhancement to traditional cruise control. Using a system of advanced sensors such as radar and cameras, ACC determines the speed and conditions of surrounding traffic and automatically adjusts cruising speed to maintain a safe distance within the flow of traffic. Many ACC systems can also recognize sudden changes in traffic conditions and alert the driver to take action to prevent a crash.

Depending on vehicle manufacturer and the system itself, any number of other terms might be used interchangeably with Adaptive Cruise Control, including:

Active Cruise Control
Dynamic Cruise Control
Automatic Cruise Control
Intelligent Cruise Control
Smart Cruise Control
Radar Cruise Control

How does Adaptive Cruise Control Work?

ACC uses a set of intelligent sensors including radar, lidar, lasers, GPS, and cameras. These sensors are placed around a vehicle’s exterior to monitor the road and nearby vehicles. Gathering real-time data on the distance away and speed of the vehicle in front, these sensors allow the ACC system to adjust the car’s speed as-needed. Typically, the driver sets their desired cruising speed when they engage ACC on the highway. The system then automatically accelerates and decelerates to stay at a safe distance from other cars within the flow of traffic.

Much like using traditional cruise control, activating ACC is intentionally simple so that a driver can easily use it while keeping their eyes safely on the road. Generally, the dedicated ACC button or switch is located on the steering wheel or control panel. Pressing or toggling this mechanism allows the driver to set their initial cruising speed. In some systems, drivers can also set their desired following distance.

While operating, certain ACC systems can take extra measures for safety and convenience purposes:

Maintaining a particular distance from vehicles ahead
Making complete stops in traffic and restarting from a complete stop when traffic resumes
Remaining engaged at low speeds in city traffic
Anticipating and automatically slowing around upcoming curves
Adjusting to posted speed limits as they change

Once in operation, the ACC system remains working until the driver disengages by either pressing the brake pedal or manually deactivating the system using the dedicated switch or button. Sometimes, ACC will use visual and audio cues to alert the driver to brake if it detects a possible collision ahead. In these instances, the driver must then re-engage the system once traffic resumes.

Benefits of Adaptive Cruise Control

Some of the benefits of adaptive cruise control include creating a more relaxed driving experience, particularly during long road trips and on highways, thanks to the system’s ability to adjust automatically to traffic speed variations and road conditions. Additionally, ACC encourages safe driving practices and helps reduce crash risk by monitoring following distance and alerting the driver or intervening if a vehicle is quickly approaching. Drivers using ACC may also see improved fuel efficiency, especially on the highway, since the system helps maintain an even speed and reduces unnecessary acceleration and braking.

Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control in Subaru Vehicles

The Subaru application of ACC is known as Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control. This feature functions seamlessly as part of our EyeSight ® Driver Assist technology —a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to enhance the driving experience. Nearly all Subaru models and trims come standard with EyeSight and Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control, including some of our most popular models like the Outback , Forester , Crosstrek , and Impreza . EyeSight is an available feature on our performance sports models with automatic transmissions, including the WRX and the BRZ , as well as those with manual transmissions.

Complementing its active cruise control functionality, EyeSight includes additional advanced features including Pre-Collision Braking and Throttle Management, Automatic Emergency Steering, Lane Centering, and Lane Departure Assist designed to help keep drivers safer. In particular, Lane Departure Assist and Lane Centering monitor lane markings and can help assist drivers with steering to avoid accidental drifting into another lane. The advanced ACC sensors can also recognize another driver approaching and adjust your vehicle’s placement within the lane to create a safer distance on all sides.

Read more about our EyeSight technology.

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Advanced adaptive cruise control is a useful feature that can help make driving easier, smoother, and safer. Explore Subaru Vehicles equipped with the full suite of EyeSight features today!

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Guide to Adaptive Cruise Control

How this convenience feature works to reduce your stress on long drives

Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is like traditional cruise control, but smarter. ACC systems allow you to set a desired speed until your vehicle encounters slower-moving traffic. Then it will brake to maintain a set distance from the car ahead. Once the traffic starts moving again or if there is no longer a car in the lane ahead, ACC will accelerate to resume the previous set speed. Although ACC systems may take some getting used to, our survey respondents told us they appreciated the stress relief the feature brings.

“I use the feature mostly on the freeway and in stop-and-go traffic. I find it reduces tension and fatigue,” wrote a 2020 Subaru Outback owner. A 2018 Audi Q5 driver agreed. “It is so nice to just set it and let the car worry about the traffic,” they told CR.

The systems use lasers, radar, cameras, or a combination of those. If traffic slows to a stop, most ACC systems will bring the car to a complete stop, then bring it back up to speed when traffic gets going again. Others work only within certain speeds and/or might not start to accelerate automatically.

Adaptive cruise control (ACC): Cruise control that also assists with acceleration and/or braking to maintain a driver-selected gap to the vehicle in front. Some systems can come to a stop and continue while others cannot. If the car comes to a full stop, you may have to press the accelerator or a button on the steering wheel to start moving again.

Not all systems work at low speeds, so drivers who plan to use ACC in slow traffic should check the limitations of any system they plan to buy. These particular systems will often have the words “traffic jam” or “stop and go” in their name.

These features are usually activated using a button on the steering wheel with the image of a car next to a speedometer with an arrow pointing at it. A conventional cruise control system does not automatically keep a set distance away from the car in front, and it is indicated by a similar logo without the car next to the speedometer. A tip to know if your car has adaptive cruise control or regular cruise control is to look for the “gap distance” button, which usually shows a symbol of a car with horizontal distance bars in front. This button will determine how much space your car leaves between its front bumper and the rear of the car it is following.

In our most recent survey, we asked CR members to rate their experiences with the advanced safety and driver assistance systems on their model-year 2017 to 2022 cars. Respondents answered questions about their satisfaction with the systems. The survey covered about 47,000 vehicles. Most respondents told us they were “very satisfied” with ACC. Satisfaction was higher for older drivers.

OVERALL SATISFACTION

What to Look For in an Adaptive Cruise Control System

Every ACC system works slightly differently, says Kelly Funkhouser, manager for vehicle technology at CR. Some do a better job than others at recognizing merging traffic and automatically apply the brakes, while others wait too long to slow your car, requiring the driver to take control—especially when a vehicle in front of you cuts you off with a close merge.

“Most ACC systems can only be set to speeds above 20 mph but will slow the vehicle to speeds below that in stop-and-go traffic,” she says. “There are a few systems out there that don’t bring the car all the way to a stop but instead just shut off at low speeds. That can be dangerous when you’re traveling behind another slowing vehicle.” She recommends reading the automaker’s website closely and learning about the speed ranges before using ACC while on your test drive.

ACC is meant for convenience, not as a replacement for an alert driver, Funkhouser says. So don’t use adaptive cruise control as an excuse to get distracted. “Just because the car is controlling your speed doesn’t mean that you can check out,” she says. “These systems do not do well at detecting or slowing for vehicles ahead if you approach them at a high rate of speed. The driver should always be monitoring the surrounding traffic and looking ahead for potential hazards.”

Keith Barry

Keith Barry has been an auto reporter at Consumer Reports since 2018. He focuses on safety, technology, and the environmental impact of cars. Previously, he led home and appliance coverage at Reviewed; reported on cars for USA Today, Wired, and Car & Driver; and wrote for other publications as well. Keith earned a master’s degree in public health from Tufts University. Follow him on Twitter @itskeithbarry .

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What Is Adaptive Cruise Control?

Automatic braking system avoid pedestrian illustration

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Advanced Driver-Assist Systems Make Our Lives Easier (and Safer)

Sadly, millions of people are involved in car crashes every year. According to the CDC, about 90 people die each day in the U.S. as a result of a car crash. However, crash fatalities are decreasing almost every year, even though there are more cars on the road. While the reasons for the decline aren’t clear-cut, advances in overall vehicle safety and advanced driver-assist systems seem to be contributing to the decline.

While most of today’s cars offer multiple driver-assist features, cruise control is still arguably one of the greatest advancements in the history of car technology. Interestingly, the feature was first invented over 60 years ago. Since then, there have been notable improvements that make the latest versions of cruise control safer and much more useful.

The invention of cruise control, along with its evolution to adaptive cruise control, marked the beginning of what may eventually lead to self-driving cars. Continue reading to learn all about adaptive cruise control.

Close-Up Of Cruise Control Button In Car

Sara Dalsecco | EyeEm

The History of Cruise Control

Various forms of cruise control were used in cars dating all the way back to the beginning of the twentieth century. However, modern cruise control was invented by American engineer Ralph Teetor in 1948. He secured a patent for the technology in 1950, and it made its way into passenger cars by the 1960s.

Teeter came up with the idea while riding along in a car with his lawyer. As a passenger in the car, he noticed that every time his lawyer talked, the car changed speeds.

Adaptive cruise control’s roots date back to 1992 when Mitsubishi launched a Lidar-based distance-detection system in Japan. However, the technology didn’t adjust the car’s speed on its own, but rather alerted the driver to take action.

By 1995, Mitsubishi improved the system to adjust the car’s speed on its own via transmission and throttle management, though actual braking was still controlled by the driver. In the early 2000s, many automakers started offering their own, more advanced versions of adaptive cruise control.

LeshkaSmok | Getty Images

What Is Cruise Control?

To most people, this may seem like a silly question. However, to better understand the evolution of cruise control, it’s important to take a look at its basic functionality.

Cruise control is a system designed to automatically control a vehicle’s speed, which the driver must pre-set after activating. It’s most useful for long highway or freeway drives, and/or in areas where there’s not much traffic, or a need to stop often. Cruise control isn’t very useful at low speeds, or in areas where there are many stop signs or traffic lights.

With cruise control engaged, you don’t have to keep your foot on the accelerator pedal or work to maintain a consistent speed. This means you can more easily adjust your seating position, rest your legs and feet, and focus on other aspects of driving. As an aside, keeping a car at a consistent speed typically leads to better fuel economy.

The controls and buttons for cruise control vary among vehicles. Typically, they’re found on either the steering wheel or a stalk on the steering column. The driver holds a steady speed using the accelerator pedal and then “sets” the speed before taking their foot off the pedal. There are also “+” and “-” buttons to change speed incrementally, as well as a button to disengage the feature and/or resume the pre-set speed. Touching the brake pedal immediately turns off cruise control.

Adaptive Cruise Control with steer assist illustration

Volvo Cars of North America |

Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is a system that helps cars stay within the speed limit or the pre-set speed while maintaining a safe, predetermined distance behind a “leading” car. When the vehicle in front of you speeds up or slows down, the system adjusts the car’s speed as necessary.

Some advanced adaptive cruise control systems have “stop-and-go” technology – sometimes called traffic jam assist. This means the system will, when necessary, bring the car to a complete stop, wait for traffic to clear or for the leading car to begin moving, and then accelerate again to the speed limit or pre-set speed. The system continues to maintain a safe distance throughout these maneuvers.

While adaptive cruise control is the most commonly used term for this technology, different automakers have different names for it. If you read that a car offers smart cruise control, active cruise control, automatic cruise control, dynamic cruise control, radar cruise control, or intelligent cruise control, be sure to find out exactly what the feature’s capabilities are.

Most importantly, find out if the feature adjusts the car’s speed on its own, and if it has stop-and-go capability. Be sure to test-drive any vehicle before buying or leasing it. Get acquainted with the adaptive cruise control feature during your test drive. Make sure you understand exactly how it works and what it’s capable of before moving forward with the transaction.

Volvo XC90 Adaptive Cruise Control in work

How Does Adaptive Cruise Control Work?

Various car manufacturers have different technologies for adaptive cruise control. However, the basic idea is the same. The car uses either a laser or radar to measure the distance to the leading vehicle. These are essentially the same lasers and radars used for features like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. They’re also used in vehicles with semi-autonomous technology. For this reason, it’s fair to say that cruise control was the first step toward what may eventually evolve into self-driving vehicle technology.

It’s important to note that some laser-based adaptive cruise control systems won’t function properly in inclement weather and/or if the sensors are wet or dirty. Radar-based systems are largely unaffected by weather or debris. While more systems employ radar than lasers, be sure to find out which technology your car – or the car you’re planning on buying – uses.

Adaptive cruise control isn’t often a standalone technology. Instead, it’s usually part of a suite of safety systems that work together. If a car has adaptive cruise control, it likely also has forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. Some more advanced vehicles also have pedestrian detection, as well as systems that help keep your car in its lane, or even help steer the car on the highway when adaptive cruise control is engaged.

dimarik | Getty Images

What Are the Limitations of Adaptive Cruise Control?

Like almost all vehicle safety technologies, adaptive cruise control is constantly improving. However, it’s still not a substitute for a human driver. While adaptive cruise control is meant to reduce stress and make driving easier, you still need to remain aware, engaged, and ready to take over the accelerator and brake pedal at a moment’s notice.

Adaptive cruise control isn’t meant to steer the car, though other complementary safety systems may help with steering as well. Adaptive cruise control systems with stop-and-go technology will monitor the car in front of you and adjust the speed accordingly. Some systems even observe speed limit signs and slow down around tight curves. With that said, if another driver slams on the brakes in front of you, cuts you off, or makes a sudden maneuver, you should immediately take over. Remember, some cruise control systems either won’t operate or shouldn’t be used in inclement weather.

While your car may also have features like automatic emergency braking, you can’t count on those features to do the job for you. Instead, the features are there just in case you don’t react quickly enough.

Mercedes-Benz steering wheel and cruise control on center display

Mercedes-Benz USA |

Should You Avoid Cars That Don’t Have Adaptive Cruise Control?

When searching for a new or used car, you should try to prioritize finding a vehicle with as many of the latest advanced driver-assist systems as possible. This is especially true if you plan to keep the car for many years.

Safety is of the utmost importance when shopping for a car. As vehicle safety systems are improving rapidly, it doesn’t take long for a car’s safety systems to become dated or even considered obsolete. For this reason, making sure you have the latest advanced driver-assist systems means you’ll be able to keep your car for a longer period of time before its features are no longer consistent with the most up-to-date technologies.

Automatic stop and go function in traffic jam illustration

Chesky_W | Getty Images

Is Adaptive Cruise Control Worth it?

It depends. While any technology that will make your life easier and safer is arguably worth it, adaptive cruise control can be a pricey option in some cars. You may have to buy a trim above the base and/or add a package. However, in many cars, adaptive cruise control comes standard, usually as part of a full suite of active safety technologies.

When you’re shopping for a car, make sure it comes equipped with as many safety systems as possible. If you have your eyes on a vehicle, and you learn that it doesn’t include a suite of safety systems, find out how much it costs to add them. If it exceeds your budget, you may want to consider a competing model that includes adaptive cruise control and other safety systems as standard.

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. |

Which Cars Have Adaptive Cruise Control?

Nearly every automaker offers adaptive cruise control. However, some systems are more advanced than others. Automakers such as Audi, BMW, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, and Toyota are generally known for having some of the best advanced driver-assist systems, though many other brands offer adaptive cruise control technology that works well.

While advanced driver-assist systems like adaptive cruise control were once reserved for luxury cars or top-level trims on larger cars and SUVs, that’s not the case today. In fact, well-priced small cars like the Honda Civic , Mazda3 , Subaru Legacy , and Toyota Corolla come standard with adaptive cruise control. Even budget-mobiles, such as the Honda Fit and Nissan Versa offer the feature.

Many of today’s SUVs come standard with adaptive cruise control as well, and those that don’t have it on the base model still offer it as an upgrade. The feature even comes standard on some small, relatively inexpensive SUVs, including the Honda CR-V , Mazda CX-3 and CX-30 , Subaru Forester , and Toyota C-HR . To see a list of the cheapest cars and SUVs with adaptive cruise control, click here .

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If you’re in the market for a new car, check out our new car rankings to compare different models and see which vehicles offer adaptive cruise control. Also, be sure to visit our new car financing deals and lease deals pages to learn about the best current manufacturer-sponsored incentives on new cars, trucks, and SUVs.

When it comes time to move forward, use our U.S. News Best Price Program to find the dealer near you with the best pre-negotiated pricing. Shoppers who use the program to buy or lease a new car save an average of more than $3,200 off MSRP.

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What is adaptive cruise control?

It’s not a stretch to call cruise control one of the earliest driving aids. It wasn’t always electronic, and it certainly didn’t make your grandfather’s 1982 Cadillac Seville autonomous, but it was a revolutionary invention. (Although here’s a fun fact: Your grandfather’s Buick had the first infotainment system way back in 1986.)

What to look for in an adaptive cruise control system

What do automakers call adaptive cruise control, are there aftermarket adaptive cruise control systems, who does adaptive cruise control best.

Adaptive cruise control takes it to the next level. It maintains a set speed for your vehicle, like a conventional cruise control system, but it also adjusts the speed based on the traffic flow. Better systems can come you a full stop in heavy traffic and continue when congestion lightens. This technology can make cruise control more useful by taking some (but not all) of the workload off the driver. Here’s what it is, and how it works.

The concept is simple: Make the car accelerates and decelerates automatically depending on how quickly the cars around it are moving. The devil’s in the details, however.

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To do it, a car must be equipped with sensors that allow it to detect nearby vehicles and potential obstacles. Most adaptive cruise control systems use radar, with high resolution radar on the horizon, although a camera and lidar (which works on the same principle as radar, but with light waves) can be used as well. You can often spot these cameras integrated into the grille or mounted behind the windshield. These sensors communicate with a computer that controls the throttle and, sometimes, the brakes and the steering system.

In its most basic form, adaptive cruise control technology only handles acceleration and deceleration, usually by following the car in front and maintaining a set following distance. Some automakers have started bundling this feature with a system that can bring the car to a full stop if needed, which comes in handy in a traffic jam, and/or one that provides a limited amount of steering assistance to keep the car centered in its lane.

Adaptive cruise control is at the center of the pile of electronic driving aids some automakers believe could form the basis of fully autonomous driving . We’re nowhere near autonomous cars, though, and it’s important not to mistake adaptive cruise control and other related technologies for full autonomy. These systems are designed to help the driver, not to drive the car themselves while the driver dozes off or counts blue cars going the other way.

Adaptive cruise control is sometimes known as dynamic radar cruise control or intelligent cruise control, and most automakers give the system brand names to make it more marketable. Regardless, the basic idea is that a car accelerates and decelerates automatically depending on how quickly the cars around it are moving.

BMW: Active Cruise Control, Active Cruise Control with Stop and Go Cadillac: Super Cruise Honda and Acura: Adaptive Cruise Control, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow Hyundai: Smart Cruise Control Kia: Advanced Smart Cruise Control Mercedes-Benz: Active Distance Assist Distronic Nissan and Infiniti: Intelligent Cruise Control, a part of Nissan’s ProPilot 2.0 system Subaru: Adaptive Cruise Control, Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering, part of the brand’s EyeSight package Tesla: Autopilot Toyota and Lexus : Dynamic Cruise Control, Dynamic Cruise Control with Stop and Go

This is one technology that cannot easily be retrofitted to an existing car. The complexity of adaptive cruise control systems puts them beyond the reach of the aftermarket. Considering that these systems can mean the difference between a car driving along and a car smashing into the back of another vehicle, concerns over liability will probably keep adaptive cruise control firmly within the domain of the original equipment manufacturers for the time being.

Like systems available from other automakers, Cadillac’s Super Cruise allows the car to accelerate, steer, and brake without driver intervention on highways. But Cadillac is the only automaker to specifically claim that drivers can take their hands off the wheel. That’s because Cadillac did a thorough job in setting up Super Cruise. Not only does the system rely on an array of cameras, radar, and lidar, but Cadillac also mapped 200,000 miles of highway. Super Cruise also has a driver-facing camera, and will only work if a certain level of driver alertness is maintained.

It’s too bad Super Cruise isn’t widely available, at least, not yet. Cadillac launched the system on its flagship CT6 sedan but has been slow to expand to other models. With the CT6 set to be discontinued, Cadillac finally announced that Super Cruise will be available on the CT4 and CT5 sedans when they go on sale in the coming months. Those sedans use a new electrical architecture that can support Super Cruise.

Subaru’s EyeSight system uses cameras instead of radar, bringing down its cost and making installation of the hardware a bit easier. EyeSight bundles adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist, a “pre-collision throttle management” feature that cuts the throttle ahead of an anticipated collision, and low-speed autonomous emergency braking. On some models, Subaru has also added a driver-facing camera to ensure the driver stays alert while these features are in use.

Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes offers one of the most comprehensive adaptive cruise control and driver-assistance suites of any automaker. Its latest Distronic Plus system can keep up with traffic, but also brake the car to a full stop in stop-and-go situations. The system will automatically resume driving if the car remains stopped for less than three seconds; longer stops require a tap of the accelerator pedal or of the cruise control’s “resume” button. A steering-assist feature helps keep the car centered in its lane, and certain versions of the system can initiate lane changes.

Tesla’s Autopilot system has attracted its share of controversy, and the name is a bit misleading considering that a human driver must be kept in the loop, but it’s still one of the most advanced systems of its kind. In addition to following traffic and automatically keeping a car in its lane, Autopilot can execute lane changes with the flick of a turn signal, and negotiate some highway off-ramps. Tesla’s ability to pull data from cars using the system and launch over-the-air software updates means Autopilot has significant potential to improve over time.

It’s no surprise that an automaker obsessed with safety was an early adopter of adaptive cruise control. Volvo was also one of the first automakers to pair the technology with autonomous emergency braking, allowing a car to both automatically follow a vehicle in front and brake if it encounters an obstacle. Volvo’s latest Pilot Assist II system doesn’t need to track a vehicle ahead, can a keep a car centered in its lane, and can operate at speeds up to 80 mph.

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General Motors-backed Cruise revealed this week that its fully driverless cars have now traveled more than a million miles, mostly on the streets of San Francisco.

The achievement comes just 15 months after the company’s first fully driverless ride, during which time it also launched San Francisco’s first paid driverless robotaxi service.

Cruise’s autonomous cars are heading to Texas and Arizona before the end of this year.

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Following a test run of the service last week, Cruise has released a video (below) showing the reaction of the very first passengers as they rode through the streets of the Californian city in a vehicle that had nobody behind the wheel.

What is adaptive cruise control?

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During road trips and drives along long, open highways, cruise control is your best friend. It allows you to set a specific speed, and take your foot off the accelerator for a while, resetting when you press on the brake pedal. However, when speed constantly changes from traffic fluctuations and passing, it may seem like an unnecessary feature.

Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is a semi-autonomous feature in some cars that automatically slows down and speeds up based on traffic flow. The driver sets the maximum speed, just like regular cruise control, and a radar sensor looks out for traffic ahead, focuses on the car directly in front, and instructs its vehicle to stay a specified time-distance behind — the “following distance” the driver selects.

Adaptive cruise control eases driver stress by operating effectively in stop-and-go, rush-hour commute traffic. It can automatically switch from 65 mph to a crawling pace without driver action. Many ACC systems nowadays also include a pre-crash function that can start breaking should emergencies arise. There are 3 basic types:

Partial ACC: Partial ACC cars tend to be less expensive, but they only operate at speeds higher than 20-25mph.

Full Speed Range ACC: Full range can bring cars to a total stop, but the ACC system will need reactivation to re-achieve following distance.

Stop and Go ACC: Also known as Traffic Jam Assist, these ACC systems will automatically restart after completely stopping.

How Adaptive Cruise Control Works

Also known as active cruise control, autonomous cruise control, or intelligent cruise control, the adaptive cruise control system measures distance using a small radar in the car’s front end, a laser, or even stereoscopic cameras. It operates at all times of the day but loses some functionality in poor weather conditions.

To engage ACC, the driver performs the following 4 actions:

The driver turns on the ACC and presses the set button once the desired speed is reached.
The speed can be tweaked in small 1-5mph increments using the “+” or “-” buttons.
The driver sets the gap between themselves and the car ahead, typically a differentiation between short, medium, and long distances indicated by numbered icons or feet.
An instrument panel shows a display of the cars it detects ahead, adding additional ones as they appear. It constantly detects any vehicles or obstacles that arise.

It’s recommended to start out with the largest following distance. Drivers new to ACC tend to become nervous when the car comes close to the one ahead without their foot on the brake pedal. Most of these systems also come with accident avoidance and collision warning features, like emergency braking and alert lights, to help the driver maintain a safe distance.

Benefits of Adaptive Cruise Control

Despite being an unnerving system to engage at first, adaptive cruise control contains 3 compelling benefits compared to normal driving:

Convenience: On long drives, adaptive cruise control can help the driver relax and rely on his or her car for some time — without completely taking eyes off the road. If you have Traffic Jam Assist, ACC can also make your daily commute immensely less stressful.

Speed Consistency: ACC can keep your car moving at a constant speed within the legal limit. This can be especially helpful on road trips, when an open highway and other distractions may cause you to press harder on the gas pedal.

Fuel Efficiency: Driving style is one of the main contributors to fuel economy. Constantly readjusting speed burns up more fuel. ACC will only use the accelerator and braking system when absolutely necessary.

Adaptive cruise control is an important feature of the development of self-driving cars. Fully autonomous vehicles will need ACC to track the cars ahead of them as well as those on the side beginning lane changes. While it will be critical to cars of the future, current drivers have much to gain from cars that already utilize ACC. Car manufacturers today with ACC include Acura, BMW, Chevrolet, Ford, Subaru, Toyota, Volvo, and many more .

While ACC is an innovative feature progressing automotive technology, the human driver remains responsible for all actions behind the wheel. Drivers can lean on adaptive cruise control when the situation allows but always need to keep their eyes on the road.

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Adaptive Cruise Control: What is ACC in ADAS?

June 3, 2021

Table of Contents

What is ACC in ADAS?

When it comes to cars, ACC stands for Adaptive Cruise Control. In a Consumer Reports survey , 85 percent of drivers with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) on their vehicles said they were very satisfied with it. What’s more, 19 percent said their ACC system helped to avoid a crash.

Standard cruise control has been around since the 1950s . Adaptive cruise control has been in development since the 1990s . Mercedes was the first automaker to bring ACC to the U.S. market in 1999 . Twenty years later, automakers are still working to improve their cruise control offerings. In the meantime, ACC technology has become one of the building blocks of autonomous driving.

In this article, we will explain adaptive cruise control and how it works, provide examples of ACC features in ADAS packages, and explain the importance of adaptive cruise control calibration.

What is Adaptive Cruise Control?

Adaptive cruise control or Active Cruise Control (ACC) is an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) that automatically adjusts a vehicle’s speed when there are slow-moving vehicles ahead, with the aim of maintaining a safe following distance. When the road ahead is clear, ACC automatically accelerates to your pre-set speed. Adaptive cruise control is ideal for highway speeds.

ACC is a major component and precursor of fully autonomous vehicles. According to SAE , Driving Automation Level 1 driver support features provide steering OR brake/acceleration to the driver while the jump to Level 2 requires features that provide both steering AND brake/acceleration to the driver. On its own, ACC is a Level 1, but when combined with another driver assist feature that steers, your vehicle reaches Level 2 on the Driving Automation scale – a step closer to fully autonomous driving .

As a foundation of autonomous driving, ACC has the capability of reducing driver stress and radically improving driver safety. A study from the Highway Loss Data Institute studied insurance claims data from 2013-2017 BMW vehicles to see how ADAS affected collision, damage, and injury rates. The BMW Driving Assistance package added ACC to the following ADAS: Forward Collision Warning , Lane Departure Warning , Front Automatic Emergency Braking . With the addition of ACC, this package reduced the rates of property damage by 27 percent and bodily injury claim rates by 37 percent.

How does Adaptive Cruise Control work?

Just as with traditional cruise control, the adaptive cruise control system requires drivers to choose their preferred speed. Next, ACC requires drivers to set their preferred following distance from the vehicle’s pre-set options. Many have close, medium, and far selections to toggle between.

Sensors Used in Adaptive Cruise Control

Vehicles with adaptive cruise control use ACC sensor data to tell your car’s speed, distance from other vehicles, and the speed of vehicles ahead of you. There are many types of adaptive cruise control technology. The following types of sensors have all been used for ACC:

Laser (Lidar)

Most (but not all) current forms of this ADAS use radar as their main source of information. A radar sensor mounted in the front of the vehicle is used to analyze the road ahead. It does this by emitting radio waves and measuring how long they take to return to the ACC sensor. A few internal calculations and your vehicle can tell the car’s distance and speed. Data from the radar distance sensors and the vehicle speed sensors are used to adjust your speed and keep your car a set distance from the one ahead of you.

ACC System Versions and Commonly Bundled ADAS

Most automakers have their own version of adaptive cruise control. Not everyone uses the same names for their ACC system. Here are a few industry terms that are all different names for ACC:

Dynamic cruise control
Intelligent cruise control
Radar cruise control
Radar adaptive cruise control
Dynamic laser cruise control
Autonomous cruise control
Smart cruise control
Dynamic radar cruise control

ACC with Stop & Go, Traffic Jam

Beyond the similar naming, there are several different features that adaptive cruise control is often bundled with to provide sensor fusion. One example of this is a feature called ACC with Stop and Go or ACC with Traffic Jam Assist. This adds the ability to come to a complete stop via automatic braking and then re-accelerate to the car’s set speed as traffic moves. All the while, data from sensors is used to keep a set, safe distance from cars ahead when you encounter heavy traffic.

Because it’s not an autonomous car, those with stop and go capabilities will only “go” again within three seconds if traffic flow allows. If it’s longer than three seconds, driver action is needed to re-engage the system.

ACC + Forward Collision Warning & Automatic Braking

Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) advanced driver assistance systems are often combined with ACC to provide audible alerts, instrument panel alerts, and tactile warnings of a forward collision risk, then automatic braking to prevent or mitigate damage from a collision.

ACC + Lane Centering

Adaptive Cruise Control works well with others. As previously mentioned, when adaptive cruise control is combined with an ADAS with steering capabilities like lane centering and proactive lane keeping assist systems, your car is considered a Level 2 on the SAE autonomous driving scale — meaning that the vehicle can accelerate, decelerate, and steer on its own — under very specific conditions, including initiation speed and weather. While it’s a step up in terms of driving automation, for safety, a human driver is still required to supervise constantly, including steering, braking, or accelerating.

ACC + GPS or Traffic Sign Recognition

Some ACC systems offer advanced traffic sign recognition , while others utilize GPS speed limit data. These optional ACC features help to combat the use of ACC technology to speed.

4 Examples of Adaptive Cruise Control

There are many different flavors of ACC. Names, tech, and bundled features make the automotive landscape — dotted with endless features, diverse names, and function variations — a bit tricky to navigate. To help you recognize ACC features, here are four automaker examples.

Ford Adaptive Cruise Control

Ford is one example of an automaker with adaptive cruise control. Here’s how Ford’s describes its system and capabilities:

“Available on select Ford vehicles is a series of Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) features employing advanced radar and camera technology. ACC lets you set a cruising speed and distance from the vehicle ahead of you. When it slows down, you automatically do too; when traffic picks back up, you resume your preset speed and distance. Then comes ACC with Stop-and-Go, which enables you to come to a complete stop when the vehicle ahead stops. Now add Lane Centering, which scans the lane markings to help you stay in your lane if the system detects you’re drifting out of it. And that’s not all. Now there’s Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, which includes all of these features plus new Speed Sign Recognition that can automatically adjust the set speed of your vehicle to the posted speed limit.”

Honda Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow

In the Honda Sensing ADAS package, the automaker offers ACC on many 2021 models with what it calls Low Speed Follow. Here’s how Honda describes it :

“Cruising on the open highway has never been easier! Honda’s Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow lets you set your cruise speed and interval behind a vehicle detected ahead, and then maintains that interval by braking your vehicle or applying the throttle. And the Low-Speed Follow function can bring your vehicle to a complete stop when a vehicle detected ahead slows to a stop, and it lets you resume operation by pressing a button or the accelerator.”

Hyundai Smart Cruise control (SCC) with Stop & Go

Hyundai offers adaptive cruise control, including on the Santa Fe. Here’s how the automaker describes it :

“While traveling at a speed set by you, it uses radar to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead. When the system slows the vehicle to a stop, it will reactivate if the vehicle in front moves within 3 seconds.”

Hyundai also offers Highway Driving Assist that works together with Smart Cruise Control. Here’s how Hyundai describes this feature :

“Your “co-pilot” for highway driving, when actively engaged with Smart Cruise Control or Lane Following Assist, this smart convenience automatically helps keep you centered in your lane and traveling at a safe distance behind the car ahead. Not only that, it also can keep you driving at the right speeds, automatically setting your pace based on GPS and highway data.”

Subaru EyeSight Adaptive Cruise Control

As part of Subaru’s Eyesight Driver Assist Technology Package, ACC is standard on many of the brand’s 2021 models and optional on the rest. It uses dual forward-facing color cameras mounted near the rearview mirror. Here’s how Subaru describes its ACC system in a promotional video :

“With adaptive cruise control, eyesight can help you stay with the flow of traffic. When you set cruise control, you can select from up to four present following distances. EyeSight watches ahead and if it detects traffic is slowing, adaptive cruise control adjusts your speed accordingly to keep your selected distance. Once traffic starts moving faster, it can automatically accelerate back up to your set speed. It can even work in stop-and-go traffic.

For some, it’s less worry about adjusting cruise control. For others, it’s like having an extra set of eyes on the road.”

Adaptive Cruise Control Limitations

Drivers should know that they are responsible for what happens when they are behind the wheel. Every company makes sure to include an asterisk and notice that drivers are still needing to be actively engaged in driving. Some drivers are using ACC to speed . A study of 40 drivers by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that they were more likely to speed when equipped with ACC.

ACC works well in clear day and night driving, and in light weather. However, if there is fog, heavy rain, or snow, it won’t work. Additionally, if dirt, snow, or ice are on the sensors, they won’t work. ACC also has trouble on winding roads.

With or without ACC, it’s important to always leave more space during poor driving conditions, including inclement weather.

Adaptive Cruise Control Calibration

ACC is one of the most common ADAS features in vehicles today. Like other ADAS systems, ACC needs to have sensors recalibrated after a collision and many vehicle services like windshield replacement . ADAS calibration keeps ACC systems working properly.

What is adaptive cruise control calibration?

Adaptive Cruise Control calibration takes place when the camera, lidar, and radar sensors that inform your vehicle’s actions are re-aligned to improve or re-establish sensor accuracy.

Getting a car calibrated takes drivers knowing about it and recognizing the warning signs.

ACC Calibration Warnings for Drivers

For drivers, the biggest sign that you need a car calibration is a recent collision. Other circumstances that necessitate Adaptive Cruise Control calibration include any time you repair or replace something nearby the location of a sensor. Another sign would be an overly sensitive ACC system, even when you have changed the settings (where possible). Here are some related warning messages that may signal it’s time to get an ADAS calibration:

Adaptive cruise control sensor blocked
Adaptive cruise control failure
Adaptive cruise control temporarily unavailable

ADAS Calibration for Auto Shops

When a car comes into the shop, techs need to know when to order or perform ADAS calibrations . They also need to understand their importance. If calibrated incorrectly, ACC systems may have following distance settings that drivers aren’t used to. They can also make the systems overly sensitive, or not sensitive enough.

Every new model year brings more and more ADAS-equipped vehicles to the streets. Cars need to be calibrated after collisions, and any repairs that may affect sensor alignment. If you want to capitalize on this impending influx of needed calibrations, Car ADAS Solutions can help. We are at the forefront of the ADAS calibration services industry. We provide turnkey ADAS calibration solutions with framework, specialty software, training, and support, built-in. Contact Car ADAS Solutions today !

Additional ACC Resources:

Cars with Adaptive Cruise Control – Car and Driver
10 Best Cars with Adaptive Cruise Control – TrueCar
Adaptive Cruise Control – MyCarDoesWhat.org

Adaptive Cruise Control FAQs

What is Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and how does it differ from regular cruise control?

Adaptive Cruise Control is an advanced driver assistance feature that automatically adjusts your vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. Unlike traditional cruise control that maintains a constant speed, ACC can speed up or slow down based on the flow of traffic.

ACC uses a combination of radar, cameras, and various other sensors to monitor the distance to the vehicle ahead and its relative speed. This data is processed by the car’s computer systems to adjust the throttle and apply brakes if necessary, ensuring a safe following distance.

Can Adaptive Cruise Control bring my car to a complete stop?

Yes, many modern Adaptive Cruise Control systems come with stop-and-go technology that can bring your vehicle to a complete stop and then resume driving when traffic starts moving again.

Is Adaptive Cruise Control safe to use in all driving conditions?

While ACC is designed to increase safety and convenience, it is most effective in steady traffic conditions on highways or well-marked roads. It is not recommended for use in city driving, in adverse weather conditions, or on roads with poor lane markings as these factors can reduce the system’s effectiveness.

Will Adaptive Cruise Control work with any vehicle ahead of me?

Adaptive Cruise Control is generally designed to recognize and respond to most passenger vehicles and trucks. However, it may not detect objects small vehicles like motorcycles and bikes, or pedestrians. This is why it’s best to avoid using in dense cities.

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What is adaptive cruise control and how does it work?

Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is an active safety system that automatically controls the acceleration and braking of a vehicle. It is activated through a button on the steering wheel and cancelled by driver’s braking and/or another button.

banner-blog-post-adaptive-cruise-control

Adaptive cruise control automatically controls the acceleration and braking of a vehicle.

How adaptive cruise control works

By monitoring other vehicles and objects on the road, adaptive cruise control enables a safe and comfortable driving experience. It does so by helping the driver keep a steady vehicle speed at a given moment. The driver can set their preference regarding certain factors, such as the distance to the car in front, driving mode – for example, economical, sporty or comfortable – and others. Together with information about speed limits, road curvature, accidents data and more, these choices influence the automatically selected speed.

Cruise control has come a long way from its early days in its quest to assist drivers on the road. When first introduced, it was only found in luxury car models due to its high production cost. As less expensive sensors reached the market, adaptive cruise control is steadily becoming a standard feature in new vehicles today.

What is the difference between normal cruise control and adaptive cruise control?

The origins of normal cruise control go back to 1948, when Ralph Teetor invented the speedostat. Having greatly improved since, its focus on throttle control is still central to automation today. One example is automatically pressing the acceleration pedal, which enables drivers to take their foot off the pedal for a few moments when they are on a motorway with low traffic. The need to remain vigilant remains, so they can brake whenever required.

In the late 1990s, several carmakers started introducing a new generation of cruise control: adaptive cruise control. This technology relies on front radar to address the biggest limitation traditional cruise control had: the ability to correctly appreciate the speed of the vehicle in front.

This improvement significantly expanded the continuous operation time of the cruise control function, as automation allowed to control both the acceleration and braking of a vehicle. This allowed the driver to travel for longer distances with their feet off the pedal, even in moderate traffic situations on the motorway. Of course, the need for them to pay attention to the road ahead remained, as cars in front could still brake or suddenly cut in.

As drivers are getting more and more comfortable with using ACC while driving, the expectation for an even longer duration of continuous operation time for the system is rising. In turn, this puts pressure for it to be further improved. As new enhancements are made, the market is shifting to a new standard in ACC, called intelligent cruise control.

Intelligent speed assistance with the TomTom ADAS Map

What use cases are supported by modern adaptive cruise control?

The latest intelligent cruise control systems aim to tackle the entire journey, offloading the driver’s tasks whenever possible. Here are some of the most interesting use cases:

Stop & Go cruise control Traffic congestion is a real problem across the world. Major cities worldwide are faced with the challenge of optimizing their traffic networks. Even driving bumper to bumper at low speeds can result not only in discomfort for drivers, but also accidents. This is where Stop & Go cruise control can play a role. Operating similarly to adaptive cruise control on motorways, the difference is in slow-moving traffic, when it automatically stops or starts vehicle movement under driver supervision. The car will brake and accelerate on its own, while maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front.

Speed limit-aware cruise control One of the situations requiring ACC adjustment by the driver is when passing a speed limit sign. However, intelligent cruise control can automatically adjust the set speed to the newly detected speed limit, thanks to input from the traffic sign recognition system. This is done by fusing camera observation and map data to provide reliable speed restriction information.

Eco cruise control for fuel and EV capacity savings When in eco mode, cruise control adjusts the set speed so that the minimum amount of energy – whether electricity or fuel – is consumed during the journey. In a situation where a vehicle would go uphill, the system could drop the speed of the vehicle with 15-20%, in appreciation of the expected downhill speed gain shortly after. To be able to make such judgment, ACC relies on ADAS map data, specifically gradient information. Being able to rely on slope data means that the TomTom ADAS Map has been proven to provide between 5-10% fuel savings.

Cruise control in curves Especially on country roads and junctions, but also on motorways, the driver usually needs to correct the speed set by adaptive cruise control when facing bends and turns. Using curvature data from the ADAS Map, intelligent cruise control can eliminate human intervention by calculating the safe and comfortable speed for a given road segment. It does so by also considering specific vehicle dynamics. There is also ample opportunity for customization. When in sport mode, the system can cater to drivers with a sporty driving style and shows them the dynamic driving capabilities of the vehicle.

Turn-by-turn cruise control One of the most recent advancements in intelligent cruise control technology is the capability to automate acceleration and braking at highway exits, entrances, junctions and roundabouts. Even when a driver corrects the vehicle speed by braking, as soon as the pedal is released, the system resumes its activity and sets the speed according to the upcoming road feature it detects. For example, this can be a drivable profile through a roundabout. Map data is critical to this operation, as the system relies on insights based on traffic signs – stop, yield, traffic lights – and curvature at junction information.

Predictive adaptive cruise control to anticipate road hazards ahead When there is a road accident, a broken vehicle on the road or severe weather conditions such as icy roads, special caution when driving is required. Intelligent cruise control systems rely on the vehicle’s connectivity to obtain early warnings and adjust speed accordingly. The result is a safer and more comfortable journey for the driver and passengers.

Parking speed control The first and the last stage of a car journey with adaptive cruise control is always the same: controlling the speed when maneuvering in a parking or a driveway. To assist the driver in such a scenario, it is imperative to use additional sensing and very low speed. Currently, many ACC systems under development target not only self-parking, but also maneuvering through large parking lots.

Dynamic priority cruise control: an emerging technology The next step for modern adaptive cruise control systems is the ability to perceive and automatically handle changing traffic lights and other vehicles at junctions. Intelligent driving strategies that support this use case include priority negotiation and sensing a rapidly changing situation with high confidence. Of course, the driver can still observe the vehicle’s choices and intervene at any given moment.

Adaptive cruise control helps drivers adjust the speed of their vehicle.

The TomTom ADAS Map: designed for intelligent cruise control use cases

Intelligent cruise control use cases rely on data beyond sensors. The TomTom ADAS Map is designed for this purpose, providing a range of attributes that power modern ADAS systems.

Since it needs to meet the highest of expectations in terms of correctness as well as being up to date, the quality of map data is of utmost importance. This way, it can confidently fulfill ADAS use cases.

“ Around the world today, over one million SAE Level 1 and Level 2 automated vehicles use the TomTom ADAS Map – both private and commercial. Having doubled in less than one year, this number is bound to rise in the future. Tsjerk-Friso Roelfzema

banner-blog-post-adaptive-cruise-control-adas-map-facts

The TomTom ADAS Map covers 5.5 million kilometers in 73 countries.

The TomTom ADAS Map includes the following attributes:

Gradient Enables predictive gear-shifting to optimize energy use.

Curvature on road Helps with driving strategy choices, such as selecting a safe speed for the upcoming bend.

Curvature at junction Helps with driving strategy choices at roundabouts and junctions, without cruise control cancellation (selecting a safe speed).

Traffic sign Helps with driving strategy choices, such as fuel-efficient slowing down ahead of an upcoming stop.

Speed restriction Helps with driving strategy choices, such as selecting a safe speed.

Lane at junction Complements the vision of the system's detections. Completes curvature data for wider roads.

banner-blog-post-adaptive-cruise-control-levels

The five levels of autonomous driving

Bosch and TomTom

Bosch has developed several ADAS functions relying on TomTom ADAS Map data services for intelligent cruise control, upcoming curve alerts and jam tail warnings. All these are critical components for car manufacturers developing the latest standard in automated driving systems.

What is the future of adaptive cruise control?

The benefits of adaptive cruise control make it a worthwhile technology to continue investing in. It provides longitudinal control of a vehicle, such as acceleration and braking. Increasingly, it can be combined with steering assist technology like lane centering for automated lane changes. The longitudinal and lateral control systems working together leads to autonomous driving, the next mobility revolution, which is expected to evolve rapidly over the next decade.

TomTom creates technologies for a moving world that supports all levels of autonomous driving. To learn more about how the ADAS Map is already powering automated vehicles on the road today, download the product sheet.

Want to learn more? Download the TomTom ADAS Map product sheet.

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Adaptive cruise control explained

Urban Hacks

In theory, traditional cruise control systems are flawless. Find yourself a long road, dial in a speed of your choosing, and, with precious little steering to worry about on Australia’s endlessly straight highways, you can simply sit back and relax.

Real life, unfortunately, is a little more complicated, and if you’ve ever rounded a blind turn with the cruise control set to 110km/h, only to find yourself charging into a herd of slow-moving, or stationary, cars, you’ll know the heart-pounding panic that comes with desperately searching for the brake pedal.

Likewise, when a car to your left attempts a Frogger-style lane change, despite travelling 30km/h slower than you, a cruise control system that’s got you locked to a particular speed goes from handy to hazardous in a hurry.

An adaptive cruise control system, also known as active cruise control, helps mitigate those risks by automatically adapting to changing traffic conditions, slowing down or speeding up with traffic as needed.

Way back in 1992 (the same year Australia’s one- and two-cent coins were withdrawn from circulation), Mitsubishi was putting the finishing touches on a world-first laser-based technology it dubbed its Distance Warning System.

The majority of systems are now radar-based, and constantly measure the road ahead for other cars.

While it was unable to control the throttle, brakes or steering, the system could identify vehicles ahead and alert the driver to begin braking. Rudimentary, sure, but it was the first baby step toward the adaptive cruise control systems used today.

By 1995, Mitsubishi had tweaked the system to begin slowing when it identified a car ahead, not by braking but by reducing the throttle and downshifting gears. But it was Mercedes who reached the next big breakthrough in 1999 when it introduced its radar-based Distronic cruise control. The German system could not only adjust the throttle to maintain a safe distance from the car in front, but could also apply the brakes if necessary.

The Distronic system was an auto-industry first, and was introduced on Mercedes’ traditional outlet for its newest technology: the then all-new (and circa-$200k) S-Class . So cutting edge was the system that even on its most expensive model, Distronic was an extra-cost option.

For the next decade, the technology was exclusive to the flagship models of premium marques, including BMW ’s Active Cruise Control, added to the 7 Series in 2000, and the Audi Adaptive Cruise Control system, introduced on the A8 in 2002.

But where the luxury brands go, everyone soon follows, and cars with adaptive cruise control are available from just about every manufacturer in Australia. And the technology is more accessible than ever before. The Volkswagen Adaptive Cruise Control system, for example, has been shared across its vast range of cars, with the technology now standard on the entry-level Skoda Octavia , yours from $22,990 (MSRP).

So just how does this marvel of modern technology work? The majority of systems are now radar-based, and constantly measure the road ahead for other cars. The driver (that’s you) then dials in not just their desired speed, but how big a gap you want to leave between you and the car ahead, which is usually measured in seconds.

The program will then maintain that gap, regardless whether the car ahead slows down, gets stuck in traffic or, on the better systems, stops all together. When the traffic ahead speeds up, so will you – topping out at your pre-determined top speed. And if a car should pull into your lane unexpectedly, your car will automatically brake, maintaining the same gap between the new car in front.

The speeds at which the system works, along with exactly what situations it will respond to, varies depending on the manufacturer, so have a good read of your owner’s manual before you fully invest your trust in it.

It’s impressive technology, but it’s not without its drawbacks, the biggest of which being that if you’re not paying attention, you can find yourself stuck behind a slow-moving car for endless kilometres as the system automatically adjusts its speed to maintain its distance, before you finally notice and overtake.

But that’s probably a small price to pay for a system that can save you from the unexpected.

How much do you depend on cruise control systems? Tell us what you think in the comments below.

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About adaptive cruise control, what you need to know about adaptive cruise control.

Adaptive Cruise Control uses a forward-looking camera or a forward-looking camera and radar technology (depending on your vehicle) to monitor vehicles you’re following. This feature helps you follow a vehicle ahead at the following gap you select (Far, Medium, or Near) while you steer. This helps reduce the need for you to frequently brake and accelerate.

If the system doesn’t detect a vehicle ahead, Adaptive Cruise Control works just like cruise control and maintains your selected cruise speed. When the system detects a vehicle ahead of you in your lane, it will automatically slow down or speed up your vehicle to maintain your selected following gap.

Just like cruise control, Adaptive Cruise Control uses the cruise control ON/OFF, CANCEL, SET and RESUME buttons on the steering wheel.

For more on how to use Adaptive Cruise Control, see the How-To article . This article will tell you about the different applications of the feature and some things to know before using it.

Adaptive Cruise Control Override

If you press the accelerator pedal while the system is in use, automatic braking won’t occur. You’ll get a message in the cluster display, or the green ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL icon will turn blue, indicating that Adaptive Cruise Control automatic braking is temporarily disabled until you release the accelerator pedal.

Adaptive Cruise Control Can Follow a Vehicle to a Stop

On most vehicles, Adaptive Cruise Control can follow a vehicle ahead to a stop. When the vehicle ahead starts moving again, you should check that it’s safe to proceed and then either press the accelerator pedal or RESUME button to continue driving. For very brief stops, Adaptive Cruise Control will automatically resume and follow the vehicle ahead.

Adaptive Cruise Control has limited braking capability, so if the vehicle you’re following stops too suddenly, you’ll get an alert to take action by quickly applying the brakes yourself.

If your vehicle has the Driver Attention System (DAS) on the steering column, Adaptive Cruise Control may automatically resume and follow the vehicle ahead for longer stops if the system detects that you're paying attention to the road.

Check your Owner’s Manual to learn more about how Adaptive Cruise Control works on your vehicle at low speeds.

Trailering with Adaptive Cruise Control

If equipped, Adaptive Cruise Control may be used when towing an attached trailer that is electrically connected and within GM-approved allowable size and weight limits.

When you turn on Adaptive Cruise Control while trailering and change the gap settings, an icon will appear in your Driver Information Center (DIC) next to your gap setting display that indicates you have trailering functionality for Adaptive Cruise Control equipped.

When towing a trailer, Adaptive Cruise Control driving characteristics, such as following gap, acceleration rates and braking rates, may be modified to provide a better towing experience.

When towing a trailer with Adaptive Cruise Control, it is important to properly set the Trailer Gain. Check your Owner’s Manual for more information on setting Trailer Gain.

It is recommended you select Tow/Haul mode when driving down steep hills or mountain grades, or when hauling heavy loads.

If you turn on Adaptive Cruise Control and do not see the trailering icon in the DIC when you try to change your gap settings, your vehicle is not properly equipped to use Adaptive Cruise Control while trailering. You should not use Adaptive Cruise Control while trailering if this is the case.

Adaptive Cruise Control should not be used while towing a trailer with an aftermarket trailer brake controller. Aftermarket trailer brake controllers may not function properly with the Adaptive Cruise Control system.

You should read your Owner’s Manual to learn more about the limitations of the system.

Safety Consideration When Using Adaptive Cruise Control

The system can only brake so much. Your complete attention is always required while driving.
Adaptive Cruise Control does not steer your vehicle. You must always be in control of vehicle steering.
The system may not react to parked, stopped or slow-moving vehicles. You should always be ready to take action and apply the brakes.
Don’t use the system on winding or hilly roads, on freeway exit or entrance ramps, or when trailering (if your vehicle isn’t equipped with Adaptive Cruise Control with trailering). In these driving conditions, the system may not detect the vehicle ahead.
The system can’t detect traffic lights or traffic signs, so you still need to brake when necessary at intersections and lights.
Avoid using Adaptive Cruise Control when the rear of the vehicle or truck bed is heavily loaded. See your Vehicle Load Limits and Owner’s Manual for more information.

Safety or driver assistance features are no substitute for the driver’s responsibility to operate the vehicle in a safe manner. The driver should remain attentive to traffic, surroundings and road conditions at all times. Visibility, weather and road conditions may affect feature performance. Read the vehicle’s Owner’s Manual for more important feature limitations and information.

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To find out if your vehicle has this feature, contact your dealer or refer to your vehicle’s equipment list. Please check your Owner’s Manual for more information about features.

Adaptive Cruise Control ⁠ 1

Part of the iq.drive safety-enhancing and intelligent technologies.

Adaptive cruise control (ACC) helps drivers maintain a constant speed and distance from the vehicle ahead using sensors to detect other vehicles .  The system can reduce speed of the vehicle if there is a slower moving vehicle ahead, bring the vehicle to a standstill, and resume speed regulation as long as the vehicle in front is moving again.

Maintain a safe distance

Assists with unintentional tailgating

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) feature allows drivers to maintain a constant speed while also keeping a safe distance from the vehicle ahead using sensors. This helps reduce the stress of constantly adjusting speed and distance, making the driving experience more comfortable.

Safety and confidence on the road

Adaptive responses for responsible driving

With the ability to slow down or bring the vehicle to a standstill in response to slower moving vehicles ahead, drivers can feel confident that they are driving safely and responsibly. This feature also ensures that drivers can easily resume speed regulation once the vehicle in front starts moving again, making the driving experience smoother and more enjoyable.

The ins and outs of adaptive cruise control

How it works

Helps you maintain a preset speed and/or preset distance from the vehicle directly ahead. When dealing with traffic on the highway, it uses sensors to detect vehicles ahead of you, helping adjust your speed, and manages the distance between you and what’s in front of you.⁠

Instructions

To engage the system, press the ON/OFF button on your steering wheel and then set your speed by accelerating to the desired speed and press the SET button.
To increase the set speed by the 1 mph, press the + button. If you press and hold the + button, the speed will increase continuously in 5 mph increments.
To decrease the set speed by the 1 mph, press the - button. If you press and hold the - button, the speed will decrease continuously in 5 mph increments.
To adjust the following distance from the vehicle in front of you, press the ACC button on your steering wheel. As you press the ACC button, you'll see a change in the number of solid bars in your digital cockpit. The more bars visible, the greater the following distance. You can make the same adjustments using the +/- buttons immediately after pressing the ACC button or in your infotainment screen.
To cancel, press the brake pedal or quickly press the cruise control button on the steering wheel.
To resume a previously stored speed, press the RES button on the steering wheel.
When you accelerate, the ACC function pauses and then resumes as soon as you stop accelerating.
Note that, in some conditions, select vehicles may come to a complete standstill. For example, if the vehicle ahead of you comes to a stop, your vehicle will also come to a stop. The stop and go feature is included on all model year 2024 vehicles . For previous generation models , see your owner’s manual for vehicle limitations.

Limitations

You must be driving above a minimum speed to activate the system. For some models the minimum speed is 15 mph; for others, it is 20 mph.
Only reacts to objects within the sensor’s line of sight; some vehicles such are not detected until they are within the sensor’s line of sight.
While all MY22 and newer vehicles can detect pedestrians, only some can detect cyclists. See your Owner’s Manual for your vehicle ’s limitations.
Once activated, system only operates between 0 and 95 mph.
The following situations can lead to unwanted braking:
Damage to or misalignment of sensors or sensor mounting.
Sensor blockage, which can be caused by ice/snow buildup, dirt, mud or leaves.
Towing heavy trailers or carrying heavy cargo in the rear of the vehicle , which can elevate the front of the vehicle and change sensor angles.
Curvature in the road.
The following situations can disable the system:
Damage to, misalignment of or blockage of the sensors.
Towing heavy trailers or carrying heavy cargo in the rear of the vehicle , which can elevate the front of the vehicle and change sensor angles.
Braking force is limited. If additional emergency braking is needed, Front Assist may intervene.

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How do I use Ford Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control * ?

Watch the video and follow the steps below to learn how to use Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, which combines Speed Sign Recognition with Adaptive Cruise Control , to adjust the cruise set speed to the speed limit detected by the speed sign recognition system. For example, if the Speed Sign Recognition system detects a 50 mph speed limit, the cruise set speed is updated to 50 mph.

Using Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control

Additional information.

What is Speed Sign Recognition? What is Adaptive Cruise Control? What is Lane Centering? What is Auto Hold?

* Feature is available on select vehicles. Features may vary based on model year, trim, options, packages, and supply availability. Use the Build and Price tool to view feature availability on current models. If you have questions or need more information, reference your Owner’s Manual or contact your Ford Dealer . Driver-assist features are supplemental and do not replace the driver’s attention, judgment, and need to control the vehicle. Refer to your Owner’s Manual for details and limitations.

** Don’t drive while distracted or while using handheld devices. Use voice-operated systems when possible. Some features may be locked out while the vehicle is in gear. Not all features are compatible with all phones.

*** Actual screens may vary. See your Owner’s Manual for information specific to your vehicle.

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COMMENTS

What Is Adaptive Cruise Control?
Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is a system designed to help vehicles maintain a safe following distance and stay within the speed limit. This system adjusts a car's speed automatically so drivers ...
What Is Adaptive Cruise Control? Is It Worth Paying For?
Subaru: Adaptive Cruise Control, Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering; EyeSight. Mercedes-Benz: Active Distance Assist Distronic. BMW: Active Cruise Control, Active Cruise Control with Stop ...
Active Cruise Control explained
Yes. Active Cruise Control was designed with high-volume commuter traffic in mind. Where speeds are constantly changing from 100km/h to a dead stop with not much warning. It only takes one driver ...
Adaptive Cruise Control: How Does It Work?
Simple to use, all you need to do is turn on the system in your vehicle, reach your desired cruising speed, and set it. The system then assumes control of the accelerator, maintaining the set ...
What is Adaptive Cruise Control?
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is an intelligent driver assistance feature that works as an enhancement to traditional cruise control. Using a system of advanced sensors such as radar and cameras, ACC determines the speed and conditions of surrounding traffic and automatically adjusts cruising speed to maintain a safe distance within the flow of traffic.
Guide to Adaptive Cruise Control
Updated May 9, 2022. Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is like traditional cruise control, but smarter. ACC systems allow you to set a desired speed until your vehicle encounters slower-moving traffic ...
What is adaptive cruise control, and how does it work?
Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is an intelligent form of cruise control that slows down and speeds up automatically to keep pace with the car in front of you. The driver sets the maximum speed ...
What Is Adaptive Cruise Control?
While adaptive cruise control is the most commonly used term for this technology, different automakers have different names for it. If you read that a car offers smart cruise control, active cruise control, automatic cruise control, dynamic cruise control, radar cruise control, or intelligent cruise control, be sure to find out exactly what the feature's capabilities are.
Adaptive cruise control
Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is a type of advanced driver-assistance system for road vehicles that automatically adjusts the vehicle speed to maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead. As of 2019, it is also called by 20 unique names that describe that basic functionality. This is also known as Dynamic cruise control.
What is adaptive cruise control?
Adaptive cruise control takes it to the next level. It maintains a set speed for your vehicle, like a conventional cruise control system, but it also adjusts the speed based on the traffic flow ...
What is adaptive cruise control?
Also known as active cruise control, autonomous cruise control, or intelligent cruise control, the adaptive cruise control system measures distance using a small radar in the car's front end, a laser, or even stereoscopic cameras. It operates at all times of the day but loses some functionality in poor weather conditions.
Adaptive Cruise Control: What is ACC in ADAS?
What is Adaptive Cruise Control? Adaptive cruise control or Active Cruise Control (ACC) is an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) that automatically adjusts a vehicle's speed when there are slow-moving vehicles ahead, with the aim of maintaining a safe following distance. When the road ahead is clear, ACC automatically accelerates to ...
What is Adaptive Cruise Control?
Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is an active safety system that automatically controls the acceleration and braking of a vehicle. It is activated through a button on the steering wheel and cancelled by driver's braking and/or another button. Even the biggest car enthusiasts have journeys they wish to be chauffeured through, or at least ...
Adaptive cruise control explained
An adaptive cruise control system, also known as active cruise control, helps mitigate those risks by automatically adapting to changing traffic conditions, slowing down or speeding up with traffic as needed. Way back in 1992 (the same year Australia's one- and two-cent coins were withdrawn from circulation), Mitsubishi was putting the ...
A guide to adaptive cruise control
What is adaptive cruise control? Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is an intelligent form of cruise control that allows vehicles to speed up and slow down automatically in order to keep pace with the traffic ahead. ACC is also known as autonomous cruise control, active cruise control, intelligent cruise control and radar cruise control.
What is Adaptive Cruise Control?
Adaptive cruise control uses radar, lasers, cameras, or a combination of any of those items to calculate your surroundings. Its sensors and processors judge what the car in front of you is doing and regulate your car in relation to the one in front of you to maintain a safe distance, braking when they slow down and accelerating when they do, up ...
How to Use Adaptive Cruise Control
1. To turn the feature on, press the cruise control On/Off button on the steering wheel. Your vehicle will default to the type of cruise control you last used when you turned your vehicle off. When the system is turned on, you'll see a white Adaptive Cruise Control icon in your cluster display or on your Head-Up Display, if your vehicle has ...
Adaptive Cruise Control
Adaptive Cruise Control has limited braking capability, so if the vehicle you're following stops too suddenly, you'll get an alert to take action by quickly applying the brakes yourself. If your vehicle has the Driver Attention System (DAS) on the steering column, Adaptive Cruise Control may automatically resume and follow the vehicle ahead ...
Adaptive Cruise Control: How Does It Work?
Adaptive cruise control (ACC) helps drivers maintain a constant speed and distance from the vehicle ahead using sensors to detect other vehicles. The system can reduce speed of the vehicle if there is a slower moving vehicle ahead, bring the vehicle to a standstill, and resume speed regulation as long as the vehicle in front is moving again.
Adaptive Cruise Control
Available Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) lets you maintain a preset speed and distance from the vehicle ahead. 10 ACC with Stop-and-Go can even help you come to a complete stop. *If the vehicle is stopped for more than three seconds, the driver must intervene and press the "RES" button or accelerator pedal to resume system operation.
What is Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control?
Watch the video and follow the steps below to learn how to use Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, which combines Speed Sign Recognition with Adaptive Cruise Control , to adjust the cruise set speed to the speed limit detected by the speed sign recognition system. For example, if the Speed Sign Recognition system detects a 50 mph speed limit ...
Active and Dynamic Cruise Control
BMW's Active Cruise Control allows you to set the distance to be maintained from the vehicle in front of you while driving. To decrease or increase simply adjust distance via controls on the left side of the steering wheel. The distance will be visible via the instrument cluster on your dashboard.

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