Adaptive Cruise Control in Cars
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), also known as Dynamic cruise control, is an advanced version of cruise control. It is used in modern vehicles to maintain distance from the preceding vehicle. It can control the speed and braking system to avoid collisions. The normal cruise control system can only maintain the speed pre-set by the driver. However, the adaptive cruise control system can accelerate or brake as per the situation, after the pre-set speed.
In this guide, we will discuss ACC in detail.
How it Works
The ACC works differently from ordinary cruise control systems. It works on a pre-set speed limit. It adjusts the vehicle speed according to the traffic and preceding cars. It usually works on the basis of sensors that are located at the front of ACC. These sensors continuously monitor the road and preceding vehicles.
If a slower speed vehicle comes in front of the car it will reduce the acceleration or engage the braking system. Similarly, if a vehicle changes lanes or speeds up, the Adaptive Cruise Control will accelerate accordingly.

However, if the road is empty it will drive the car at the maximum speed set by the driver. It can be activated at a speed of 30 km/h or above. Whereas, adaptive cruise control with stop and go feature can be activated below 30 km/h.
Types of Adaptive Cruise Control
The ACC is getting modernized with time and new technologies are being used in the system. Following are the different types of ACC currently used in commercial vehicles.
Laser-Based
The laser-based ACC works on laser technology. A big black box is placed in the front grille of the vehicle to detect any potential hazard or car. However, the cruise control failure can occur in rainy weather, as it often stops functioning during rain.
Radar-Based
It is one of the oldest and most efficient technologies used in ACC. small sensors are placed on the front and rear bumper of the car to monitor the road. These sensors work in a collaborative manner and over all sides of the vehicle. The sensor position and shape can vary from model to model.

Multi-Sensor Based
The multi-sensor ACC utilizes more than one type of sensor to provide a detailed picture of the car’s surroundings. It can use GPS information or a camera to capture even minute details. This ACC can provide complete geographical information of the surrounding car.
Binocular Computer Vision System
The Binocular Computer Vision System ACC is completely based on the footage collected from the camera. These cameras are generally located at the back of the rearview mirror and capture all the elements in front of the car.
Predictive Systems
The predictive ACC is completely dependent on the sensory data collected. It prefers passenger’s safety and may stop or slow down the vehicle if it senses any danger. It can even stop the vehicle if it detects a car changing lanes in speed.
Tips for Using Adaptive Cruise Control
The ACC is an advanced feature of modern vehicles, but its effectiveness depends on multiple external factors. See the following useful tips to ignore any discomfort while using ACC.
- ACC may not work properly in extreme weather conditions like rain or fog. Make sure not to completely rely on ACC in these climatic conditions.
- Always check your user manual to ensure that ACC will slow down your vehicle or not.
Where to Use Adaptive Cruise Control
If you are travelling on the freeways or highways often then adaptive cruise control is the best feature for your car. It can control the acceleration and braking system letting the driver focus on other driving essentials. However, it is different from self-driving cars, it requires your attention and control. It is worth it if you are willing to control and take over in case of an emergency.

The adaptive cruise control is an example of modern convenience and luxury in vehicles. If you are also interested in using this technology, browse through these used cars for sale in the UAE. Following is the list of cars with adaptive cruise control that are advanced and can cater to all the needs.
- Buy second-hand Mazda 3 2021 for sale in the UAE
- Buy used Nissan Maxima 2020 for sale in the UAE
- Buy used Hyundai Sonata 2021 for sale in the UAE
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more information on cruise control.