Cruise control is among the conveniences in modern vehicles that make it comfortable and efficient for drivers on long drives. Whether on the smoothness of the highway or maintaining the same speed on open roads, cruise control makes driving smooth.

This feature allows drivers to take their foot off the accelerator pedal once the desired speed is achieved, making it very useful for those in the UAE, keeping in mind the long highways like Sheikh Zayed Road to maintain speed limits while driving with ease.

The article explains what cruise control in a car is, how it works, and gives some safety tips on using cruise control effectively, while having a peek at its more advanced counterpart: adaptive cruise control.

What is Cruise Control in a Car?

Definition of Cruise Control

Cruise control is an electronic system of travel by which a driver is able to set a given constant speed, where the driver does not need to keep pressing the accelerator and brake pedal.
Basic cruise control is a traditional system that allows drivers to maintain a set speed under free-flowing traffic conditions, requiring manual engagement and disengagement. In that, it smoothes operation in a relaxed manner for extended drives along very long stretches of uninterrupted highways or freeways.

Historical Background and Evolution

First introduced in the 1950s, cruise control basically worked to avoid driver fatigue during highway driving.
These are now replaced by much-improved cruise control systems, like the modern adaptive cruise control systems, where even advanced features are available to adjust the moving speed of the vehicle according to flowing traffic for safety and convenience.
Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) enhance driving experiences by automating functions like speed control and improving vehicle handling

Types of Cruise Control Systems

1. Conventional Cruise Control: Maintains a set speed as defined by the driver but requires manual intervention if the road conditions change or obstacles arise.
2. Adaptive Cruise Control: The recent addition of sensors and cameras to keep a tab on the road and keep the car at speed by maintaining the braking distance from the vehicle upfront. The adaptive cruise control system has been made standard in all high-end cars, including Lexus with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, which exhibits outstanding performance.

How Does Cruise Control Work?

Working Mechanism

The cruise control system automates the car’s acceleration and speed maintenance. Here’s how it works:

1. Components Involved:

• Accelerator and Brake Pedal: Cruise control overrides these to maintain the desired speed.
• Throttle Valve: Controls the airflow into the engine, regulating the car’s power output.
• Sensors: The velocity of the car and its surroundings.
• ECU: Electronic unit processing input data from sensors to run everything smoothly.

2. Setting and Maintaining Speed:

• The driver activates it through a button on the steering wheel of cruise control, then sets the desired speed.
• This value of speed is then sent to the ECU, which throttles to maintain this value of speed. The cruise control makes adjustments in the throttle based on the difference between desired and actual speeds with consideration for weight and inclines.
• Adaptive cruise control continuously monitors the road and adjusts the speed accordingly based on traffic conditions.

3. Differences Between Traditional and Adaptive Cruise Control:

• Traditional systems maintain a fixed speed, requiring manual braking.
• Adaptive cruise control work involves dynamic adjustments, including slowing down and speeding up as per the flow of traffic.

Safety Tips for Using Cruise Control

While cruise control enhances convenience, safe usage is crucial, especially on UAE roads with variable conditions.

Importance of Weather Conditions and Road Type

Do not use cruise control when driving in rainy or sandy conditions since this could affect the control of your vehicle. Cruise control systems adjust speed according to traffic and road conditions for safety and convenience.

When to Avoid Using Cruise Control

• On wet or slippery roads, where maintaining grip is challenging.
• In heavy traffic, where constant adjustments are required.
• On winding roads or steep inclines, which demand manual control.

Staying Attentive

While using cruise control, the driver must remain vigilant, with hands on the steering wheel and ready to use the brake pedal if necessary.

How To Use Cruise Control on Lexus Cars

Our representative always find himself using cruise control when driving around the streets of Dubai. It's and convenient to use, especially on long drives.

Step 1: Push the the Cruise Control Handle is on the lower right side - behind the steering wheel
Step 2: Once you've accelerated to the desired speed, shift the handle up or down
Step 3: You will see a confirmation message on the dashboard confirming the speed at which the car will maintain

Conclusion

Cruise control, especially adaptive cruise control, is a game-changer in modern driving for added comfort, safety, and efficiency. Be it sticking to a set speed on the Abu Dhabi-Dubai highway or plying through traffic with the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control of Lexus, this is an inseparable technology for drivers in the UAE.

The increasing availability of cruise control cars across various price ranges and model types makes this technology more accessible to a broader audience. Explore this feature in your car to drive smarter and stress-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

When to Use Cruise Control?

Cruise control is perfect for those long highway drives where the road is straight, and traffic is minimal. It helps to maintain a constant speed, reducing driver fatigue and maintaining the speed limit.

Does Cruise Control Save Fuel?

Yes, maintaining a steady speed improves fuel efficiency by reducing unnecessary acceleration and braking, particularly during extended drives on UAE highways.

Can You Brake on Cruise Control?

Yes, pressing the brake pedal disengages the system instantly, allowing the driver full manual control of the vehicle.

In What Situations Should You Not Use Cruise Control?

Avoid using cruise control on wet or slippery roads, in heavy traffic, or when driving through steep or winding routes.