Definition: adaptive cruise control

Adaptive cruise control (ACC) maintains the distance to the vehicle in front of it. That distance, which is set by the driver as a number of car lengths, is measured by sending radar signals from the front of the vehicle. When the cruise control is turned on and the speed is set, the system automatically brakes and accelerates. Also called "active cruise control," "dynamic cruise control," "smart cruise control" and "intelligent cruise control."

Like regular cruise control, some ACC systems disengage at slower speeds. However, "stop and go ACC," also called "traffic jam assist," will come to a complete stop, which enables drivers to use the system in bumper-to-bumper traffic. See automotive safety systems.

Set the Distance

The steering wheel control on this 2017 Honda allows drivers to choose short, middle, long and extra long to set the distance threshold to the car ahead based on their driving preferences.