Definition: adaptive cruise control

Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is an automotive cruise control that maintains the distance to the vehicle in front of it. Regular cruise control only maintains a steady speed. The distance, set by the driver as a number of car lengths, is measured by sending radar signals from the front of the vehicle. When the ACC is set, the vehicle automatically brakes and accelerates to maintain the speed. Also called "active cruise control," "dynamic cruise control," "smart cruise control," "intelligent cruise control" and "traffic-aware cruise control" (see Tesla).

Like regular cruise control, some adaptive systems disengage at slower speeds. However, "stop and go cruise control," also called "traffic jam assist," will come to a complete stop and then go again enabling drivers to use the system in bumper-to-bumper city traffic. See automotive safety systems and Tesla Autopilot.

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 to the car ahead, and the ACC maintains that distance.