Adaptive Cruise Control

Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is an advanced driver assistance system that enhances traditional cruise control by using radar, cameras, or LiDAR to monitor traffic conditions and adjust the vehicle’s speed accordingly. Unlike conventional cruise control, which maintains a constant speed, ACC automatically slows down or accelerates to maintain a preset following distance from the vehicle ahead.

This makes highway driving safer and less fatiguing, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Many systems allow drivers to set preferred distances and speeds, while newer adaptive cruise control technologies integrate with lane-keeping systems to provide semi-automated driving experiences.

For consumers, ACC improves comfort and safety, reducing the risk of rear-end collisions and easing the burden of long commutes. For automakers, it represents a key selling point in modern vehicles, often bundled within ADAS or premium trim levels.

However, ACC has limitations: it may not perform well in poor weather, sharp curves, or heavy traffic, and drivers must remain attentive at all times. Insurance companies may view vehicles with ACC more favorably, recognizing their role in accident reduction.

Ultimately, ACC demonstrates how incremental innovations in driver assistance pave the way toward greater vehicle autonomy while providing immediate real-world benefits.