Adaptive Cruise Control

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is an intelligent form of cruise control that maintains a safe distance to traffic ahead. It is also known as autonomous cruise control, active cruise control, intelligent cruise control and radar cruise control. ACC works by scanning the road ahead with a laser or radar system and automatically slows down or speeds up the car. To use ACC, turn it on, set the desired speed, and adjust the distance with the “set” and “+” or “-” buttons. The car notifies the driver to apply the brakes if the car ahead gets close. Unlike traditional cruise control, ACC adapts to the road ahead. It is usually laser- or radar-based and can cover ranges of up to 200m. ACC has advantages of maintaining a safe gap from traffic and is great on busy roads, but cars with ACC are more expensive and the systems can be affected by weather or slippery roads. ACC is a great extra layer of safety and can provide fuel savings due to steadier speeds, but the driver still bears responsibility for safe driving. Those who travel frequently on busy roads and want the latest tech should consider ACC, and insurers may account for it in their underwriting algorithms.