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The Evolution Of Cruise Control And How It Works Today

Cruise control is one of the most useful safety and convenience features in modern cars, here is its history and how it works.

• Cruise control is a common feature in modern cars, making driving easier and potentially saving money on gas.
• Ralph Teetor, a sightless engineer, created the first cruise control in 1948, influencing the majority of cars today.
• Adaptive cruise control uses radar sensors to maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead, enhancing safety and convenience.

It is probably instinct for you to be driving along a freeway and clicking on cruise control, giving your foot a rest, and watching the road. You probably don't even think about it now as you cruise along the stretch of road where you usually get to work or to see family regularly.

Or, you could be a driver who doesn't realize that your car features it, but, cruise control is featured in the majority of modern cars, whether that be a new electric car, a frugal hybrid car , a pick-up truck, a sports car, or a powerful sedan . All are likely to boast cruise control, or at the very least, it comes as an optional extra. Cruise control is one of the modern auto world's most useful and convenient features that not only makes your life easier but, also could potentially save you money on gas. Something we all need now that gas prices have recently gone up .

If you are like us and like to know how cars and electric cars work , you have probably thought to yourself before, how does cruise control work? Modern examples of cruise control have come a long way since the original model, and have become a safety measure in cars, so it is now an integral part of driving for a lot of people. For these reasons, we have scoured a wide range of sources to find out where cruise control came from, how it works, what cars feature cruise control, and how it has evolved from the first example, to what it is today.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various Kia's website, Ford's website, and other authoritative sources, including Kelley Blue Book, The Rolls-Royce and Bentley Technical Library, The Smithsonian Magazine, MIT, Car Buzz, JD Power, Department Of Energy.gov, and Fuel Economy.gov.

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The beginning of cruise control.

The earliest known example of cruise control was created by an engineer named Ralph Teetor in 1948 . Legend has it that the idea came to him after being driven by an acquaintance who would slow down his driving every time he wanted to talk to Ralph. Ralph Teetor was sightless and, according to his family, had a 'legendary sense of touch', so the small deviations in speed would have been noticeable to him.

Others, including his family members, have said that the mandatory gas-saving speed limit of 35 MPH imposed by the American government during WWII could have also been an influence. The increased need for road safety could have played a part. For whatever reason, Ralph Teetor created something that has gone on to influence nearly all the cars on our roads today.

The first example of cruise control was called the Speedostat, and consisted of a dashboard speed selector connected to an engine compartment mechanism. As the driver-set speed got closer, the governor mechanism overcame spring tension to activate a piston capable of pushing back against the gas pedal, making it hard for the driver to push down the gas and gain any more speed until it was deactivated. Teetor obtained a patent for the Speedostat in 1950.

Early Models With Cruise Control

Over the next 5 years after 1950, the Speedostat was improved and a speed lock, which consists of an electro-magnetic motor that allows the driver to reach the needed speed and tap the brakes to maintain the speed, was added.

The first automaker that offered the Speedostat as an optional extra in their luxury models was Chrysler in 1958. The 1950s Chrysler models that feature the early version of cruise control are:

• 1958 Chrysler Imperial
• 1958 Chrysler New Yorker
• 1958 Chrysler Windsor

A couple of years later, Cadillac offered cruise control, as they had re-named it, in all of their models as an optional extra. The earliest Cadillac models to feature cruise control are:

• 1960 Cadillac deVille
• 1960 Cadillac Eldorado
• 1960 Cadillac Coupe deVille

How Cruise Control Has Progressed

Cruise control was not seen as a needed addition to cars until 1973 when an oil embargo against the U.S.A. created the need to save gas wherever possible. Meaning, that the implementation of cruise control became far more widespread and more than just a convenient feature to have. It became a gas-saving device that was needed at the time. Today, cruise control is one of the most common features of modern cars, alongside advanced safety features, which make the roads a safer place .

The change in cruise control comes in the form of throttle control and works in the following steps:

• Speed is selected by the driver via buttons on the steering wheel or dashboard (dependent on the car model).
• An electric motor (part of cruise control which is managed by your car's engine management unit), controls the position of the throttle with assistance from sensors and an actuator.
• The throttle position is set at the angle where the right amount of air can be let into the combustion chamber of the engine and the right amount of fuel can be injected to match your desired speed.
• The throttle is held in that position until you deactivate the cruise control by pressing the brake or accelerator to either increase or decrease your car's speed manually.
• Your car's cruise control may also accelerate or decelerate depending on the road surface and inclination of the road, but this depends on what car you have (we will cover this below).

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How cruise control works in modern vehicles.

With more and more cars on our roads than ever before, just setting a speed and leaving at that speed would be great. It would make every journey a lot easier, but, of course, there are other road users to think about. This is how cruise control has become a very handy safety feature as well as a good way of saving fuel , getting a long driving range from your car , and making your trip easier.

In modern cars, radar-controlled cruise control, or adaptive cruise control, is used extensively to ensure you have a convenient ride and your drive is safe. Adaptive cruise control uses the following components to keep you at a safe distance from a vehicle ahead of you:

• Radar sensor
• Digital signal processor
• Longitudinal controller

Like the use of cruise control, an actuator controls the position of your throttle at your desired speed. The main difference between older versions of cruise control and adaptive cruise control is that a radar is placed behind the grille of a car and will help to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles in front of you.

Information is passed from the mentioned adaptive cruise control components to your engine management computer and then to the actuator that controls the throttle and reduces, or increases your speed.

Why Automakers Use Cruise Control

Automakers like Ford have implemented Active Cruise Control in a lot of their cars , and it is an optional extra for a wide range of their models too. Like Ford, many automakers have said that the use of cruise control and adaptive cruise control is being implemented for the following reasons:

• To save fuel
• To provide a safer drive
• To help reduce fatigue and loss of concentration
• To help you stay within speed limits

The Benefits Of Convenience

One of the main things that cruise control or adaptive cruise control is beneficial for in the modern world, apart from safety, is for saving gas. With rising prices pretty much everywhere in everyone's lives, this may be of paramount importance to you.

According to Fuel Economy.gov, the use of cruise control can potentially help you save gas because there will be constant speed of driving upheld. The more you accelerate and decelerate, or change speeds, even unintentionally, the more gas you use. The Department Of Energy has also said that the use of cruise control can help you save gas by maintaining a constant speed on the highway or in low-traffic situations.

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Models of modern cars with cruise control.

Most new and some used cars and pickup trucks, depending on the age, and on the auto market come with cruise control or adaptive cruise control as standard. Even if you buy one of 2024's most fuel-economical gas-powered cars , regardless of what engine is featured, it will likely come equipped with either cruise control or adaptive cruise control as standard.

Along with efficient engines that are boasted in mainstream cars , one of the best potential gas-saving features is cruise control. We have taken a look around and found some stand-out examples of pickup trucks and cars that feature cruise control as standard .

Best Trucks And SUVs With Cruise Control

Though pickup trucks are not the most fuel-economical vehicles on our roads, they can be made relatively fuel frugal thanks to their powertrains and features, that help to bring down their combined MPG rating. Of course, the speed you set your pickup truck or SUV at, and how you use cruise control, can affect your combined MPG.

We have written before about the best hybrid cars, trucks, and SUVs for 2024 and 2025 . From our list, the following pick-up trucks and SUVs not only feature some great luxury features, work capabilities, and powerful powertrains, but also feature cruise control or adaptive cruise control:

• 2025 Ford Ranger PHEV
• 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe
• 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e
• 2024 Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid
• 2024 Kia Niro PHEV

Best Cars With Cruise Control

Featuring in many cars on the market at the moment, cruise control is very common. Adaptive cruise control, as a standard feature though, is a little less common in 2024 budget cars .

If you are looking at buying a new car in 2024 , it is always worth asking, of course, but it is likely that it will feature cruise control as standard. From its humble beginnings in the mid-20th century to the almost required safety and gas-saving device in modern cars, cruise control has had a long history. A history full of adaptations to suit the needs of the driver and the changing road environment. Cruise control has even been rolled out in a few motorbike models as well. It is becoming arguably necessary and common on our roads.

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How Cruise Control Systems Work

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Cruise control is an invaluable feature on Ameri­can ­cars. Without cruise control, long road trips would be more tiring, for the driver at least, and those of us suffering from lead-foot syndrome would probably get a lot more speeding tickets.

­Cruise control is far more common on American cars than European cars, because the roads in America are generally bigger and straighter, and destinations are farther apart. With traffic continually increasing, basic cruise control is becoming less useful, but instead of becoming obsolete, cruise control systems are adapting to this new reality -- soon, cars will be equipped with adaptive cruise control, which will allow your ­car to follow the car in front of it while continually adjusting speed to maintain a safe distance.

In this article, we'll learn how a conventional cruise control system works, and then we'll take a look at adaptive cruise control systems that are under development.

What Cruise Control Does

Cruise control acceleration and deceleration, controlling the cruise control, adaptive cruise control.

The cruise control system actually has a lot of functions other than controlling the speed of your car. For instance, the cruise control pictured below can accelerate or decelerate the car by 1 mph with the tap of a button. Hit the button five times to go 5 mph faster. There are also several important safety features -- the cruise control will disengage as soon as you hit the brake pedal, and it won't engage at speeds less than 25 mph (40 kph).

The system pictured below has five buttons: On, Off, Set/Accel, Resume and Coast. It also has a sixth control -- the brake pedal, and if your car has a manual transmission the clutch pedal is also hooked up to the cruise control.

• The on and off buttons don't actually do much. Hitting the on button does not do anything except tell the car that you might be hitting another button soon. The off button turns the cruise control off even if it is engaged. Some cruise controls don't have these buttons; instead, they turn off when the driver hits the brakes, and turn on when the driver hits the set button.
• The set/accel button tells the car to maintain the speed you are currently driving. If you hit the set button at 45 mph, the car will maintain your speed at 45 mph. Holding down the set/accel button will make the car accelerate; and on this car, tapping it once will make the car go 1 mph faster.
• If you recently disengaged the cruise control by hitting the brake pedal, hitting the resume button will command the car to accelerate back to the most recent speed setting.
• Holding down the coast button will cause the car to decelerate, just as if you took your foot completely off the gas. On this car, tapping the coast button once will cause the car to slow down by 1 mph.
• The brake pedal and clutch pedal each have a switch that disengages the cruise control as soon as the pedal is pressed, so you can shut off the cruise control with a light tap on the brake or clutch.

The cruise control system controls the speed of your car the same way you do -- by adjusting the throttle position . But cruise control actuates the throttle valve by a cable connected to an actuator , instead of by pressing a pedal. The throttle valve controls the power and speed of the engine by limiting how much air the engine takes in (see How Fuel Injection Systems Work for more details).

In the picture above, you can see two cables connected to a pivot that moves the throttle valve. One cable comes from the accelerator pedal, and one from the actuator. When the cruise control is engaged, the actuator moves the cable connected to the pivot, which adjusts the throttle; but it also pulls on the cable that is connected to the gas pedal -- this is why your pedal moves up and down when the cruise control is engaged.

Many cars use actuators powered by engine vacuum to open and close the throttle. These systems use a small, electronically-controlled valve to regulate the vacuum in a diaphragm. This works in a similar way to the brake booster , which provides power to your brake system.

The brain of a cruise control system is a small computer that is normally found under the hood or behind the dashboard. It connects to the throttle control seen in the previous section, as well as several sensors. The diagram below shows the inputs and outputs of a typical cruise control system.

A good cruise control system accelerates aggressively to the desired speed without overshooting, and then maintains that speed with little deviation no matter how much weight is in the car, or how steep the hill you drive up. Controlling the speed of a car is a classic application of control system theory . The cruise control system controls the speed of the car by adjusting the throttle position, so it needs sensors to tell it the speed and throttle position. It also needs to monitor the controls so it can tell what the desired speed is and when to disengage.

The most important input is the speed signal; the cruise control system does a lot with this signal. First, let's start with one of the most basic control systems you could have -- a proportional control .

In a proportional control system, the cruise control adjusts the throttle proportional to the error, the error being the difference between the desired speed and the actual speed. So, if the cruise control is set at 60 mph and the car is going 50 mph, the throttle position will be open quite far. When the car is going 55 mph, the throttle position opening will be only half of what it was before. The result is that the closer the car gets to the desired speed, the slower it accelerates. Also, if you were on a steep enough hill, the car might not accelerate at all.

Most cruise control systems use a control scheme called proportional-integral-derivative control (a.k.a. PID control). Don't worry, you don't need to know any calculus to make it through this explanation -- just remember that:

• The integral of speed is distance.
• The derivative of speed is acceleration.

A PID control system uses these three factors -- proportional, integral and derivative, calculating each individually and adding them to get the throttle position.

We've already discussed the proportional factor. The integral factor is based on the time integral of the vehicle speed error . Translation: the difference between the distance your car actually traveled and the distance it would have traveled if it were going at the desired speed, calculated over a set period of time. This factor helps the car deal with hills, and also helps it settle into the correct speed and stay there. Let's say your car starts to go up a hill and slows down. The proportional control increases the throttle a little, but you may still slow down. After a little while, the integral control will start to increase the throttle, opening it more and more, because the longer the car maintains a speed slower than the desired speed, the larger the distance error gets.

Now let's add in the final factor, the derivative . Remember that the derivative of speed is acceleration. This factor helps the cruise control respond quickly to changes, such as hills. If the car starts to slow down, the cruise control can see this acceleration (slowing down and speeding up are both acceleration) before the speed can actually change much, and respond by increasing the throttle position.

Two companies are developing a more advanced cruise control that can automatically adjust a car's speed to maintain a safe following distance. This new technology, called adaptive cruise control , uses forward-looking radar , installed behind the grill of a vehicle, to detect the speed and distance of the vehicle ahead of it.

Adaptive cruise control is similar to conventional cruise control in that it maintains the vehicle's pre-set speed. However, unlike conventional cruise control, this new system can automatically adjust speed in order to maintain a proper distance between vehicles in the same lane. This is achieved through a radar headway sensor , digital signal processor and longitudinal controller . If the lead vehicle slows down, or if another object is detected, the system sends a signal to the engine or braking system to decelerate. Then, when the road is clear, the system will re-accelerate the vehicle back to the set speed.

The 77-GHz Autocruise radar system made by TRW has a forward-looking range of up to 492 feet (150 meters), and operates at vehicle speeds ranging from 18.6 miles per hour (30 kph) to 111 mph (180 kph). Delphi's 76-GHz system can also detect objects as far away as 492 feet, and operates at speeds as low as 20 mph (32 kph).

Adaptive cruise control is just a preview of the technology being developed by both companies. These systems are being enhanced to include collision warning capabilities that will warn drivers through visual and/or audio signals that a collision is imminent and that braking or evasive steering is needed.

For more information on cruise control, check out the links below.

Cruise Control FAQ

How does cruise control work, how does adaptive cruise control work, will adaptive cruise control stop the vehicle, when would you use cruise control, how useful is cruise control, lots more information, related articles.

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A brief history of the cruise control system in your car

Nowadays, pretty much every car comes with some form of cruise control. Invented in the early 1900s, cruise control became popular on luxury vehicles, but has since become a vital and incredibly useful piece of automotive tech. But what is it exactly? And how can it help you drive more safely?

Cruise control is a nifty setting that allows you, the driver, to set your vehicle to maintain a fixed speed. Unless you touch the accelerator or brake pedal, your car will keep on moving onward, at the exact speed you’ve chosen. Pretty handy, especially when you think about those long highway journeys that seemed fun when you planned them but are a lot less so after five hours of driving. In addition to saving your leg from horrendous cramping, it reduces cognitive fatigue and increases fuel efficiency.

The first version of cruise control appeared in the early 1900s, in a Wilson-Pilcher car. The driver was able to set the chosen speed using a lever on the steering column. What we’d consider modern cruise control came about in the late 1940s, invented by a man named Ralph Teetor . Teetor, who was completely blind, was one of the foremost automotive engineers of his generation. His invention, first called ‘Speedostat’, was introduced in a Chrysler car as a luxury option. Its surge in popularity led the brand to install a ‘Speedostat’ it in all its vehicles. It was officially christened ‘cruise control’ by General Motors when it began using it in its Cadillac vehicles.

Modern cruise control systems began to emerge in the 1990s, with manufacturers incorporating more advanced digital technology into the design. Other systems such as LiDAR, radar, sonar and camera-based solutions were soon added, increasing the car’s ability to sense oncoming traffic, which in turn helped the vehicle to determine speed and avoid potential accidents.

Modern cruise control began to emerge in the 1990s, with advanced digital technology incorporated into the design.

How does it work?

By actively adjusting the car’s throttle , cruise control works to maintain the speed of the car without needing the driver to do anything. In mechanical setups, the system activates the throttle valve with a cable connected to an actuator, which ensures the engine generates enough power to maintain its current speed. However, in newer cars , that use a drive-by-wire throttle body, cruise control is completely electronic. This results in a more predicative system, whereby it can slow down or speed up depending on what the target speed is. It also allows the driver to increase or decrease their speed, usually using buttons on the steering wheel.

The driver, of course, can decide when to use cruise control. They are also in charge of what speed the car will cruise at. After turning the system on, the driver then must set the speed. In some cars, the system will cruise at the current speed, in others it might need to be set. To deactivate the system, the driver must simply press the brake or clutch pedal or cancel it using a button that usually found on the steering wheel.

Different types of cruise control

The examples above are the most simple applications of cruise control, more advanced types of cruise control do exist, though — one of which is most commonly called adaptive cruise control . Cars fitted with an adaptive cruise control system use a forward-looking radar sensor to detect the speed and proximity of the car ahead. It then uses that information to adjust its own speed and keep it at a safe distance.

When the car ahead slows down, so will the car fitted with adaptive cruise control. When the car ahead speeds up, the cruise control will increase the vehicle's speed until it hits its set limit. If you want to dive even deeper into this topic, we’ve written about it before — click here for that article .

There are a many different types of adaptive cruise control – radar-based systems, laser-based systems, binocular computer vision systems, assisting systems, multi-sensor systems and predictive systems. The first two are self-explanatory – using radar and laser systems to detect the vehicles surroundings, as opposed to binocular computer vision which uses cameras in the vehicle’s rearview mirror. Other versions, such as assisting systems , can be bought separately to enhance the safety features that the car already has. Predictive systems use data in order to predict the movement of other vehicles.

The type of cruise control fitted varies from vehicle to vehicle, so it pays to know what type of system your car has so you can understand its capabilities. There are limitations , both with adaptive cruise control and conventional cruise control. The driver must still pay attention at all times and not let their awareness drift. Weather conditions such as snow, rain or fog could also confuse the sensors and adversely affect the adaptive cruise control system.

Weather conditions such as snow, rain or fog could confuse the sensors and affect the adaptive cruise control system.

So, what’s next?

Cruise controls is usually packaged as part of the vehicle’s advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS). ADAS, while not autonomous, is constantly evolving to bring drivers new and more powerful safety features. However, Level 2 ADAS systems are viewed by some as the next step towards autonomous vehicles, with technology such as adaptive cruise control playing a core role in their argument. The problem with this though, is that partial automation (AKA cruise control) in cars has led some drivers to grow confused as to how far their vehicle’s autonomy extends, which is a dangerous combination. Recently, Tesla ran into trouble with its customers regarding complaints over cruise control deteriorating over time. The ‘phantom-breaking’ drivers experienced, where the EV would break suddenly and without warning, would almost cause the cars to be rear-ended. Adaptive cruise control, while having evolved exponentially and providing a service that benefits safety on the road, is still not a failsafe for a fully attentive driver and it certainly has a long way to go before becoming fully autonomous.

It also begs the question whether cruise control can be seen as potentially misleading. The false sense of security that drivers experience, thinking that their car is keeping their speed under control or – as with Tesla drivers – is completely autonomous, can lead to distracted driving. Cars do have systems in place to prevent distractions like drowsiness , but lack of attention due to a misguided belief that the vehicle will prevent any potential accidents is not one of them.

When used correctly, though, cruise control can help make driving safer and less fatiguing. But it still begs the question, is it only a matter of time before cruise control systems will be completely autonomous? That remains to be seen. But for now, take comfort in the fact that your car has an extra eye on the road, accompanying you on those tiresome and long drives.

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Cruise Control In Cars Explained (And How To Safely Use It)

Have you ever wished you could set your car's speed and just sit back and relax while driving on a long stretch of highway? If that's the case, then cruise control is just the ticket you've been searching for—and the good news is, it's a standard feature in most cars these days!

Cruise control is a handy feature for drivers that allows you to maintain a constant speed without having to keep your foot on the gas pedal. In this post, we'll explore how cruise control works, its benefits, and how to use it safely to make your driving experience more comfortable.

Understanding Cruise Control

Cruise control, also known as speed control, is an electronic system that allows you to maintain a specific speed without manually controlling the accelerator pedal. The system uses sensors and electronic components to control the throttle and keep your car moving at a desired speed. First introduced in the late 1950s, cruise control has since become a standard feature in most modern vehicles you see on the road today.

How Does It Work?

At its core, cruise control involves a series of sensors that monitor the vehicle's speed and a control unit that regulates the throttle. When the driver sets the cruise control to a specific speed, the system adjusts the throttle to maintain that speed. If the car begins to slow down because of an incline (e.g. going up a hill), the system will open the throttle to accelerate. Conversely, if the car starts to speed up due to a declin (e.g. going downhill), the system will close the throttle to decelerate.

Modern cruise control systems also come with additional features like adaptive cruise control (ACC), which uses radar or cameras to detect vehicles ahead and automatically adjusts the speed to maintain a safe following distance (more on this BELOW).

The History of Cruise Control

The invention of cruise control can be traced back to the late 1940s and early 1950s, when engineer Ralph Teetor developed the first-speed control system. This innovative feature was designed to help drivers maintain a steady speed, reduce fatigue while driving, and improve fuel efficiency. Over the years, cruise control technology has undergone significant advancements, leading to the development of sophisticated systems like adaptive cruise control.

Types of Cruise Control Systems

Today, drivers can choose from a range of cruise control systems, each with its own unique features and functionalities.

Conventional Cruise Control

Conventional cruise control is like your old reliable friend. It's pretty basic and doesn't have any fancy bells and whistles. You just set the speed you want, and it'll keep your car cruising along at that speed, no problem. It's perfect for those long drives on open highways, but it doesn’t automatically react to other cars on the road.

So, if the car in front of you slows down, you'll need to step in and adjust your speed manually. This trusty system comes standard on most cars and is great for saving some fuel on those long road trips .

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

Now, if conventional cruise control is your old reliable friend, then Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is like that friend's tech-savvy younger cousin. ACC isn't just maintaining your set speed, it's also keeping an eye on the car in front of you. If that car slows down, ACC slows your car down to keep a safe distance .

It's like having an extra set of eyes on the road, making highway driving a breeze. Plus, some ACC systems can even handle stop-and-go traffic, bringing your car to a full stop and then picking up speed again when traffic gets moving.

Predictive Cruise Control

Predictive Cruise Control is like the fortune teller of cruise control systems. It uses GPS and map data to see into the future and predict what's coming up on the road, like hills or curves, and adjusts your speed accordingly. This means you get a smoother ride and better fuel efficiency, but it all depends on the quality of the GPS and map data. If that's a bit out of date, your fortune-telling cruise control might not be so accurate. It's usually found in more high-end vehicles where top-notch fuel efficiency is a focus for the engineers.

Cooperative Adaptive Cruise Control (CACC)

And then we have Cooperative Adaptive Cruise Control, or CACC. This is like the team player of cruise control systems. It allows cars to talk to each other, coordinating their speeds to maintain a safe distance. It's like having a well-coordinated team of cars all working together to make the traffic flow smoother and reduce congestion. Picture it like a synchronized dance on the highway, where every car knows its place and keeps the right distance. This tech is still pretty new, but it's got a lot of potential. Imagine a future where traffic jams could be a thing of the past.

Remember, these systems are here to make your drive smoother and safer, but they're not a replacement for your attention. No matter how fancy your cruise control is, these systems can be greatly influenced by external conditions like weather and traffic, and they should always be used as aids, not replacements, for attentive driving.

Common Cruise Control Symbols and Indicators

Understanding the various symbols and indicators associated with cruise control is important for safe and effective usage. These symbols typically appear on the dashboard (or on the side of the steering wheel) and may include a speedometer icon, "SET," "RES" (resume), and "CANCEL". Be sure to consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific details and explanations of these symbols.

Benefits of Using Cruise Control

Cruise control offers several benefits to drivers, especially during long road trips or highway driving.

Fuel Efficiency

One of the main advantages of using cruise control is improved fuel efficiency. By maintaining a constant speed, cruise control helps reduce fuel consumption, leading to better gas mileage. Rapid acceleration and deceleration, on the other hand, can lead to increased fuel consumption.

Comfort and Convenience

Cruise control allows drivers to take their foot off the accelerator pedal, reducing fatigue and improving comfort during long drives. It also helps drivers avoid unintentionally exceeding the speed limit by setting a maximum speed.

When used correctly, cruise control can contribute to safer driving. By maintaining a steady speed, it reduces the likelihood of erratic driving behavior and potential accidents. However, it is important to note that cruise control shouldn't be used in certain conditions, such as heavy traffic or slippery roads .

Troubleshooting Common Cruise Control Issues

Occasionally, you may encounter issues with your cruise control systems. Common problems include cruise control not engaging or disengaging unexpectedly. Possible causes may include a faulty brake light switch, malfunctioning sensors, or issues with the control module. If you experience any problems with your cruise control, it's best to have a qualified technician diagnose and repair the issue for you.

Cruise Control and Road Etiquette

Practicing proper road etiquette while using cruise control is essential for a safe and pleasant driving experience. Here are some tips on how to use cruise control courteously:

• Avoid using cruise control in heavy or congested traffic, as it may hinder your ability to react quickly to changing conditions.
• Be mindful of other drivers when setting your speed. Avoid setting a speed that's significantly slower or faster than the flow of traffic.
• If you are in the passing lane and using cruise control, be sure to adjust your speed or temporarily disengage the system to allow faster-moving vehicles to pass.
• Always signal your intentions, such as lane changes or exiting the highway, even when using cruise control.

The Future of Cruise Control Technology

Cruise control technology plays a vital role in the development of autonomous vehicles, or self-driving cars . In autonomous vehicles, cruise control systems work together with other advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to enable the vehicle to operate without direct driver input. These systems include lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and collision avoidance systems.

As autonomous vehicles become more sophisticated, cruise control technology is evolving to support higher levels of automation. For example, some autonomous vehicles are equipped with advanced cruise control systems that can navigate complex traffic scenarios, merge onto highways, and even change lanes autonomously.

While fully autonomous vehicles are still in the developmental stages, the integration of cruise control technology is a big step toward creating safer and more efficient transportation systems.

As automotive tech continues to advance, cruise control systems are becoming more intelligent and capable. Here are some potential developments we can expect to see in the future of cruise control technology:

• Integration of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve decision-making and responsiveness in adaptive cruise control systems.
• Enhanced connectivity and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication, enabling cars to share information about traffic conditions and coordinate their speeds for smoother traffic flow.
• Greater customization and personalization options, allowing drivers to set preferences for cruise control behavior, such as following distance and speed adjustments.

Overall, the future of cruise control technology holds promise for creating a more seamless and enjoyable driving experience, with a focus on safety, comfort, and sustainability.

Debunking Myths About Cruise Control

Let's address and debunk some common misconceptions about cruise control:

Myth : Cruise control can be used as a substitute for driver attention.

Fact : Cruise control is a driver assistance feature, not a replacement for attentive driving. Drivers should always remain alert and ready to take control when necessary.

Myth : Cruise control increases the risk of accidents.

Fact : When used appropriately, cruise control can contribute to safer driving by maintaining a steady speed and reducing erratic driving behavior.

Cruise control is a valuable feature that can enhance your driving experience by providing comfort, convenience, and fuel efficiency. Remember to use it safely and appropriately based on driving conditions, and always stay attentive while on the road.

If you found this post informative and want to learn more about car features, driving tips, and automotive technology, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates. We're here to help you stay informed and enhance your driving experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cruise Control

To further enhance your understanding of cruise control, here are answers to some common questions:

Q : Can cruise control be used in all weather conditions?

A : It isn't advisable to use cruise control in adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, or icy roads, as it may reduce your ability to respond quickly to changing road conditions.

Q : Can I use cruise control in urban areas with frequent stop-and-go traffic?

A : Cruise control is best suited for open roads and highways with consistent traffic flow. It isn't recommended for use in urban areas with frequent stops or heavy traffic.

Q : Does cruise control work at any speed?

A : Cruise control typically has a minimum speed threshold, below which it can't be engaged. This threshold varies by vehicle, so check your owner's manual for specific information.

About the Author: This article was crafted by the LOOP Marketing Team. Comprising of seasoned professionals with expertise in the insurance industry, our team is dedicated to providing readers with accurate, up-to-date, and valuable information. At LOOP, we're passionate about helping families navigate the world of car insurance, ensuring they get the best coverage at the most affordable rates. Learn more about our mission and values here.

For more insights on auto insurance and other related topics, visit our blog .

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How Does Cruise Control Work?

Cruise control is awesome, be it regular or adaptive cruise. But, how does cruise control work, and can you trust it while driving?

We invented cars as means of transportation, to go faster and to go further. But the evolution of cars didn't stop there. Comfort has become a necessity, leading to the invention of features purely for driver convenience—features such as cruise control.

Cruise control lets you take your foot off the gas pedal without your car losing speed. With cruise control, you enter the speed, and then the car keeps cruising at that speed.

It's bliss for driving long distances on highways, but how does cruise control actually work?

What Is Cruise Control?

Cruise control is a driving assist that maintains a constant driving speed without your foot on the gas pedal. Cruise control has been around for a long time, but only in the past few years has it become more common in economy cars.

There are various types of cruise control mechanisms, and these usually work according to the type of throttle system in your car. However, some manufacturers take this feature to the next level with adaptive cruise control, automatically altering cruise speed.

Cruise control has evolved many times since it was first used in automobiles. As mentioned before, cruise control's working mechanism revolves around the throttle system. Right now, there are mostly two types of throttle systems in the cars you see out in the streets: the older cable throttle and the newer drive-by-wire throttle.

Cruise Control in Older Cars with Cable Throttle

Cable throttle systems use mechanical connections, and thus, the cruise control on these cars works mechanically as well.

In cars with cable throttle systems, the cruise control actuator is connected to the throttle body through a cable on one side. On the other side, the actuator is connected to a pump.

Most cruise control actuators in cable throttle bodies use a set of springs and rely on vacuum pressure. The pump connected to the actuator creates a vacuum that tightens the springs in the actuator and this, in turn, puts tension on the cable. This cable is connected to the throttle body, and when the actuator puts tension on the cable, the throttle body opens in response. This ultimately gives your car gas without the gas pedal being used.

Related: What Is an Immobilizer and Does My Car Have One?

Now remains the question of how a specific speed is set for the actuator. This all goes through the car's electronic control unit or ECU. You press a button in your car to activate cruise control, and the ECU powers the pump in just the right amount to put the right tension on the cable. Lo and behold your car drives without your foot on the gas pedal!

The ECU also takes info from the speed sensor to see if the current speed and the target speed match. If your car is going faster than it should, then the ECU will release some tension on the cable, and if it's going slower, it will increase the tension.

Some cars use valves instead of pumps to create the vacuum in the cruise control actuator. In that case, the ECU is responsible for opening and closing that valve.

Keep in mind that there are various types of cruise control actuators, and not all use springs, though most do.

Cruise Control in Newer Cars with Drive-By-Wire Throttle

The cruise control system in newer cars with drive-by-wire throttle bodies is entirely electronic. Since there are no mechanical parts involved, the ECU gets the current speed and decreases or increases it to reach the target speed.

In these cars, the ECU talks directly to the electronic control module (ECM). The ECM is responsible for controlling the throttle body to accelerate or decelerate. Once you set your preferred speed, the ECU grabs that and sorts it out with the ECM and just like that, your car drives at your preferred speed.

How Does Adaptive Cruise Control Work?

Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is an advanced form of cruise control that takes in information from sensors other than the speed sensor to determine the ideal speed in real-time.

ACC talks to proximity sensors such as radar and lidar, speed sensors, and a combination of cameras to take in the other vehicles on the road and the road itself. Once the signals are received and processed, ACC determines the safe distance and speed.

This system then alters the speed accordingly, reducing your car's speed if you're getting too close to another car in front or if you're nearing a turn. Once the road is clear, ACC accelerates the car to the target speed you have set.

In some cars, ACC can even trigger the brake systems to decelerate the car quickly in case the car in front suddenly brakes or a hazard appears.

Related: How Does Adaptive High Beam Assistance Work?

Cruise Control in Motorcycles

Unlike cars, motorcycles don't have gas pedals. They have gas handles instead. Unfortunately, holding a gas handle for a long duration is much more frustrating than holding a gas pedal. This nuisance has called for a technology similar to cruise control in function but different in design: throttle lock.

Throttle lock functions similarly to cruise control in cable throttle cars, except it skips the actuator and the ECU and directly deals with the throttle body.

Throttle lock works by locking the throttle cable and maintaining a constant amount of tension on the cable. This keeps the motorcycle cruising at a steady speed.

The simplicity of the throttle lock has a catch. Throttle lock doesn't check in with the speed sensors to see if it's going any faster or slower than the target speed, so it only works well on flat roads.

When to Use (and Not to Use!) Cruise Control

Use cruise control on straight roads with little traffic. As a safety measure, braking will disengage cruise control, and on a road with lots of vehicles, you'll need to brake often.

Cars naturally decelerate when you take your foot off the gas pedal, but that won't be the case when you have cruise control activated. It might be too late by the time you hit the brakes when you use cruise control on a crowded road.

This also goes for roads with lots of turns and twists. Entering a sharp turn with high speed is often dangerous. Put the turns behind you and once you have a straight road, engage the cruise control.

Though the point of cruise control is to make your ride more comfortable, it's prone to make you a bit too comfortable. Falling asleep behind the wheels with cruise control engaged is likelier to happen. Albeit this time, the car won't decelerate and will keep going.

Related: Standalone vs. Integrated Car Navigation Systems: What's the Best Option?

Adaptive cruise control solves most of the limitations that come with ordinary cruise control systems, but it still isn't flawless. Adaptive cruise control relies on your car's sensors to decide the appropriate speed, and these sensors can get blocked in bad weather. Snow, mud, rain, and other natural hazards can get in the way of your car's sensors and make the adaptive cruise control less reliable.

Adaptive cruise control has limited access to the braking system, and it won't be able to stop a head-on collision. Use the brakes yourself and remember that cruise control is only a driver assist feature, not an autopiloting system.

With this in mind, please take full control of your vehicle in bad weather and tricky roads. Don't trust the cruise control, be it normal or adaptive.

Cruising with Control

The cruise control system was first strictly found on high-end luxury cars, but now even economy cars are often equipped with this feature. This system makes driving long trips much easier, as you don't have to keep your foot on the gas pedal for hours.

Though cruise control makes things easier, it doesn't mean that you should use cruise control all the time. There are times where you need to take things into your own hands.

Cruise Control Explained – All You Need to Know

Cruise control has come a long way since first invented and patented by Ralph Teetor in 1950, who originally named it the “Speedostat”. Chrysler Corporation was the first manufacturer to offer the groundbreaking mechanism as an option on several of its luxury vehicle models nine years later. Today, cruise control is rapidly becoming the standard on all new vehicles, providing drivers with increased convenience on their daily drive.

As you’re learning how to operate a vehicle , understanding cruise control will help increase your comfort behind the wheel and knowledge of driving.

What is Cruise Control?

Cruise control is an electronic device within your vehicle that controls the speed of your vehicle. It allows the driver to maintain a constant speed of 25 mph without holding their foot on the accelerator. Although the feature has been around for 70 years, automotive manufacturers continue to improve upon the technology to provide drivers with increased comfort, luxury, and convenience whenever they’re behind the wheel.

Different Types of Cruise Control

There are 3 types of cruise control systems.

• Speed Limiter
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Semi-autonomous Cruise Control

What is a Speed Limiter?

A speed limiter will limit how fast the driver can accelerate behind the wheel. All modern vehicles contain a standard speed limiter capping speed between 120 mph and 180 mph depending to protect the vehicle’s engine and discourage reckless driving. However, an additional limiter can be added as an option in many European-made cars, as well as Tesla, Ford, and Nissan. Drivers are still required to keep their foot on the pedal to keep their vehicle in motion, but will not be able to accelerate past a predefined speed limit.

What is Adaptive Cruise Control?

Adaptive cruise c ontrol uses sensors around the vehicle’s exterior to maintain speed while keeping a safe following distance from the car ahead. The system will slow you down and speed you up as the flow of traffic fluctuates throughout your commute, removing a lot of the stress from daily driving. However, adaptive cruise control may not work well in bad weather or protect you from sudden movements, so you will want to always keep your full attention on the road.

What is Semi-autonomous Cruise Control?

Luxury automakers such as Tesla and Audi are implementing the newest rendition of cruise control on their latest vehicle models – Semi-autonomous Cruise Control. It works largely the same as adaptive cruise control, but assists drivers with lane guidance and steering. There are several variations of semi-autonomous cruise control that include additional convenience features for the driver.

How to Use Cruise Control – 6 Step Guide

These are the steps to using cruise control effectively.

• Observe weather conditions
• Build speed
• Engage cruise control
• Set cruise control
• Watch the road and steer
• Brake to disengage

1 – Observe weather conditions

As mentioned, cruise control may become inconsistent in rainy, snowy, or otherwise hazardous conditions. If you must drive in this situation, it may be a better idea to do so manually. Cruise control works best on a clear day with constant traffic flow.

2 – Build speed

Accelerate to your desired speed as you prepare to activate cruise control. US highways have posted speed limits between 55 mph and 75 mph. Do not attempt to set cruise control when you are traveling over the speed limit.

3 – Engage cruise control

Once you’ve reached your desired speed, engage the cruise control. This step will vary widely based on your vehicle make and model, however, many cruise control settings are accessible from the steering wheel controls. Check your owner’s manual for further information.

4 – Set cruise control

After turning on cruise control, you’ll need to set your desired speed. Many systems set the cruise control at the current speed, while others require you to manually set one. You can increase and decrease this speed as needed without interrupting the mechanism.

5 – Watch the road and steer

Watching the road is essential when cruise control is engaged. Cruise control is not a substitute for a human driver and will require supervision at every step. If you are using a semi-autonomous system, you will not need to steer but will need to keep at least one hand on the wheel for safety measures.

6 – Brake to disengage

When cruise control is no longer needed, or you need to quickly make a maneuver, simply apply pressure to the brakes to disengage the system. Once deactivated, you will be in full control of your vehicle once again.

When NOT to Use Cruise Control

While cruise control is a convenient feature for modern drivers, it is not perfect for all circumstances. In fact, utilizing the system can be quite dangerous if you’re not careful. Be sure not to use cruise control under these conditions.

Heavy Traffic

Heavy, or stop-and-go traffic is not ideal for safely using cruise control. When engaging cruise control on the highway, ensure your lane is clear and there are no vehicles stopping ahead.

Wet or Icy Conditions

You need to be driving slowly while on wet and icy roads. While cruise control keeps a constant, predetermined speed, it takes away a lot of the manual control needed to stay safe when it’s raining or snowing.

City Driving

While driving through the city, you’ll face a number of stop lights and stop signs that will require manual braking. This action will automatically disengage cruise control.

Winding Roads

Winding roads require more attention than straight, flat streets. Cruise control systems, even adaptable cruise control, may not always detect these streets correctly, causing accidents.

Fatigued Driving

Driving while fatigued is never a good idea, but even less so while using cruise control. Utilizing the system may add to your fatigue, as you give your vehicle more control of the journey. If you’re even the least bit tired, you should never turn on cruise control.

As you can see, cruise control is a great way to relieve much of the stress that comes with everyday driving. The constant rate of speed can also drastically improve fuel efficiency for longer drivers. Cruise control has had a positive impact on the driving industry for 70 years and shows no signs of disappearing anytime soon.

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The evolution of cruise control

Amongst the sea of automated functions appearing in modern cars, from remote control parking to evasive steering assist, cruise control might not sound like the most exciting, newfangled feature – but its invention was just the start for automation ..

Jump back half a century, and the introduction of an automated mechanism for speed control was having a momentous impact on the automotive world. And while cruise control has been maintaining speeds in vehicles for decades, the technology hasn’t remained stagnant it’s been changing and improving immensely to this day.

Inspiration strikes in a strange place

While riding as a passenger in his lawyer’s car in the 1940s, American engineer Ralph Teetor was irritated by the constant jerking along the journey. The cause? His lawyer had a tendency slow down when talking and speed up when listening.

Already experienced with vehicle mechanisms, having been a pioneer of automatic transmission , Teetor set about designing a solution to his lawyer’s pesky driving habits. His solution would count the rotations of the vehicle’s drive shaft to calculate its speed, then use a bi-directional screw-drive electric motor to adjust the throttle and maintain an even pace.

After several years of work, not to mention a procession of names for his invention (the ‘Controlmatic’ and ‘Speedostat,’ to name a few), Teetor was able to secure a patent for a “Speed control device for resisting operation of the accelerator” in 1950.

Teeter’s idea catches on

In 1958, Chrysler’s Imperial became the first car to implement Teetor’s invention, initially under the name “Auto-pilot,” although the company would eventually use the moniker we know today. “Cruise control” quickly became a popular feature across the industry, and in the 1960s, it could be found in cars from every major manufacturer.

Beyond the obvious benefit of giving the driver’s feet some respite on a long trip, cruise control was also promoted as a blessing for consumers during the 1973 oil crisis , which saw fuel prices skyrocket. By keeping speeds stable, cruise control could save consumers money by avoiding the fuel surges associated with an unsteady foot on the pedals.

Cruising into the 21st century

By the early 1990s, car manufacturers had begun building upon cruise control with new technologies, and the following decades have seen Teetor’s analog method of speed management traded with a digital approach.

LiDAR-, radar-, sonar- and camera-based solutions (often working concurrently) arrived in our cars, allowing them to sense other vehicles in order to determine speed, detect & avoid collisions, maintain lanes, and predict the behaviour of other vehicles among other capabilities. Though these systems have been marketed with different names over the years, they’re best known as ‘adaptive cruise control’ and ‘predictive cruise control.’

Mapping data has further enhanced cruise control by allowing cars to make smarter decisions on the road. For instance, HERE’s own mapping data allows adaptive cruise control to anticipate the speed, curvature, and slope of the road ahead, and improves fuel efficiency in vehicles with predictive cruise control.

Cruise control today

Teetor’s invention undoubtedly left its mark. According to a survey by the American Automobile Association , adaptive cruise control is the second most popular automated function among drivers (behind lane departure warnings), and an essential feature for millennial buyers.

But the real impact of cruise control might be that it surfaced the tip of the iceberg for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems and, eventually, autonomous driving. Teetor managed to give the automotive world a taste of how automated systems can fit into the future of driving, and car manufacturers have continued to find ways to expand on the idea, from parking assistance and sign detection to completely driverless travel.

Vincent Varney

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Here's What Sport Mode Really Does In Your Car

• Sport mode changes driving dynamics, offering faster acceleration, tighter steering, and stiffer suspension in your vehicle.
• Using sport mode leads to increased fuel consumption and engine wear due to higher revs and aggressive driving dynamics.
• Vehicles across different price ranges, from sedans to pickup trucks, feature sport mode for a sportier driving experience.

If you ever get the overwhelming desire to drive in a bit more of an athletic way and have the urge to hit the button on your steering wheel or near your instrument panel that says 'sport mode', then finding out exactly what it does is important. You don't even need to drive one of 2024's best sports cars to have a fun, sporty ride, as it seems that the majority of new vehicles in 2024 will come equipped with sport mode.

Whether that is a 2024 hatchback, a 2024 pickup truck, or a 2024 sedan, there are lots of cars and pickup trucks that suit the most conservative budget , not just high-end and expensive sports cars , which come with the option to have a little more fun on the road whilst still possessing the 'sensible' option.

If you drive in the most entry-level sports car, a luxury German sedan with rear-wheel drive , or a pickup truck, sport mode will make a big difference to how your vehicle feels on the road. We have researched a range of sources to bring you information that we think you will find interesting about what happens to your car when you punch the tempting little sport mode button, including the pros and cons, what components of your vehicle are affected, and when the best time to use it is.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from Toyota's and BMW's websites and other authoritative sources, including HotCars, Pedal Commander, CarBuzz, Evan Halshaw, and True Car.

The Evolution Of Cruise Control And How It Works Today

From day to day to razor-sharp reactions.

Besides giving you more of a race-driver feeling, changing to sport mode in your car actually changes how certain aspects of your car react, making the driving dynamics feel sportier, and in some cases, more aggressive. Depending on the car model, like in some hatchbacks like the Honda Civic Type R , this could be something as simple as a change of when gears shift in an automatic transmission, or changing how the steering feels. Some sportier bred models' dynamics will change a lot more.

Increased Reactions In The Steering And Throttle

According to HotCars , there are a few main changes to your car that will occur when you change the driving mode from 'normal drive' to sport mode. The positive changes in driving dynamics include:

• Faster acceleration
• Tighter steering
• Stiffer suspension
• Faster throttle response

With sports sedans like the BMW M3 Series, which is already very sporty, comfort mode is used for day-to-day driving and will give you a smoother and less rigid ride, lower revs between changes in gears, and the steering will have a little more play. Switching from comfort mode to sport mode will stiffen the suspension to improve handling in fast corners, make the steering stiffer and more responsive, and will enhance throttle. The button changes the whole street-fighting attitude of the car to a more street-domineering attitude.

Toyota has also said that switching to sport mode in their models will change throttle responses, transmission lockup and shifting, and the responsiveness of their electronic power steering assist. For a model from the 2024 GM lineup that features Cadillac's Magnetic Ride Control system, such as the 2024 Chevrolet Camaro , at the touch of a button, you can lower the body of the car closer to the suspension and stiffen the suspension via a command through the car's computer and reduce the reactions the springs make, stiffening the ride.

Sport mode will also change the sensitivity of the throttle. So, when you push the gas, reactions happen a lot quicker between you pushing the gas and the throttle opening in your engine. The result is a quicker input of fuel through the injector into the combustion chamber in your engine, and a quicker acceleration from the time you put your foot down.

Shifting Timings Change For Power

One of the main changes to happen to your car when you put it into sport mode (mainly for cars that feature an automatic transmission) is at what point gears change. When you are driving about in normal mode, eco-mode, or comfort mode, the gears in your transmission will change up or down at optimum times either to save you fuel or to give you enough acceleration to get moving at just enough revs.

Changing to sport mode will mean that the transmission will either change down quicker or hold on to revs before changing up to keep you at an optimal power band for your matched speed. This means that you will get more from the available power that the powertrain in your car has. If you have a more top-of-the-range car that boasts a sport mode, gear shifting will also be more rapid at these higher revs to give you more responsive and sportier reactions to the gear changes.

Sport mode is made for those of you who want to push it a little more from whatever you drive, and though some cars are equipped with a better sport mode that will do more than others, any sport mode avalilable will make a difference to how your car feels.

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The downsides of sport mode.

Unfortunately, with the added fun that can be had in sport mode, it comes with some downsides. As most things do with over-use, the overuse of sport mode could actually see you spending more money, than we guess you want to, on certain parts of motoring.

As Your Fun Goes Up, Your Fuel Economy Goes Down

With recent rising gas prices in America , you may only want to use sport mode for those twisty canyon roads that we all love to hit at top speed, around a track, or times when you don't mind using a bit more fuel, not just for cruising down the highway or everyday driving. It is the same premise of waiting late until you are red-lining to change gears in a car that features a manual transmission. Using sport mode, where the sport mode in your car holds off on changing gears until higher revs or changing down quicker to raise the revs, uses more fuel.

According to the Department Of Energy , avoiding aggressive driving is one way to save fuel. When sport mode gives you a more 'aggressive' rate of acceleration or holds rev higher for longer, you are using more fuel. The 'overuse' of sport mode will negatively impact your car's combined MPG rating.

Your Engines Life Could Suffer

A lot of car manufacturers are well aware of their customers' desire to use sport mode in their models, so, this could be a bit of a null point depending on what car you drive. But, the more you use sport mode in your car, the more wear on your car's engine because of the more continuous higher revs and the increased heat produced from running the engine harder.

Some automakers, like BMW , are said to purposely run engines hotter as standard in their sportier lineup to counter wear and tear produced from increased power and heat, so this point can only possibly be applied to cars that are a little lower range.

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The vehicles that use sport mode.

We know, it all sounds like fun. If you have just gone to look at your car and realized that you don't have an available sport mode but still want to have the best of driving worlds in one of your favorite brands of car , then it may be time to look for a car that does feature it.

As we have mentioned, vehicles that can be bought within a range of budgets feature sport mode, so we have found a few from each segment that you may like the look of as your next new car.

2024 Sedans, Hatchbacks, Sports Cars, And Luxury Cars That Feature Sport Mode

2024 pickup trucks which feature sport mode.

Most new pickup trucks feature sport mode and that will change the driving dynamics. We have found a range of trucks of different sizes that can also be driven a little more athletically whilst still being as utilitarian as a truck should be.

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Judge orders Alabama driver to apologize or face jail for telling officer, 'Get your ass out of the way'

An Alabama man who told a police officer, “Get your ass out of the way” after he was ticketed during a traffic stop last year says he was ordered by a judge to either apologize to the officer for having cursed at him or face up to 30 days in jail.

But Reginald Burks says he is prepared to sacrifice his freedom because he believes his First and Eighth Amendment rights have been violated. He contends that his freedom of speech has been imposed upon and that he is facing a cruel and unusual punishment. While Alabama law prohibits using “abusive or obscene language” in public, Burks has not been charged with disorderly conduct and he does not believe the word “ass” is barred under the law.

“It’s not a curse word,” Burks, 39, said in an interview Monday. “It’s in the Bible.”

On Dec. 13 at approximately 7:38 a.m., Burks was stopped by a police officer in the small town of Ozark in southeast Alabama while he was taking his son and daughter to school.

Burks, who lives in Skipperville about 10 miles from Ozark, said he had gotten out of work at 4 a.m., slept for about two hours and woke up to get his kids, who were 14 and 8 at the time, ready for school.

Burks said the officer who pulled him over told him that he had been driving above the 25 mph speed limit, without being specific. Burks didn’t believe that to be true, so he said he asked the officer how fast he had been traveling. He said the officer told him that his radar gun was broken so he used the cruise control on his vehicle to estimate Burks’ speed. Burks said he told the officer that he didn’t find that a credible approach and to just write him a ticket. After writing the ticket, the officer stood in front of Burks’ car, he said.

“He was standing there and wouldn’t move,” Burks said. “I had asked him politely at least twice.”

“I said, ‘Sir, step back, get out the way,’” Burks said. “He said, ‘You can go. Go around.’”

Burks said he responded: “Get your ass out of the way so I can take my kids to school. That’s why y’all underpaid because y’all act dumb.”

Burks drove off and apologized to his daughter for the exchange.

The Ozark Police Department said Burks case was no longer a law enforcement matter because the fine had been paid, but did not answer additional questions about the incident.

Burks appeared in court last month prepared to plead guilty, pay the fine and put the ordeal behind him. But after he paid the fine, which totaled $211.12, including a $20 fine, as well as service and court fees, Ozark Municipal Court Judge Nicholas Bull told him that he must also write an apology to the officer for allegedly having cursed at him, according to a copy of the order shared with NBC News.

Burks declined. If he does not submit the letter at his next court appearance June 4, he will have to serve up to 30 days in jail, he and his attorney said.

“My client is being punished for a protected speech that has got nothing to do with the traffic situation, which to me is just good ol’ boy Alabama,” David Harrison, the attorney, said Monday. “And what I mean by that is that this system is not equal for African Americans and white people.”

“This man is being convicted for something they couldn’t charge him with and win at trial,” Harrison continued. “The crime here is not apologizing and that’s my issue. It’s not constitutionally sound. It’s probably the most unsound decision that I’ve seen in 33 years of practicing law.”

The police officer, the judge and Harrison are white.

Bull, the judge, did not immediately return requests for comment.

Jenny Carroll, a professor at the University of Alabama School of Law, said she agrees with Burks that the word ass is not an obscenity, at least not as defined by the Federal Communications Commission.

Carroll said judges have discretion in sentencing and can order a condition as part of a sentence, that can include things like requiring a defendant to apologize. And it is not uncommon for a judge to punish a defendant for an absence of remorse or not being apologetic.

But, she said, the judge’s order raises the question of whether the punishment fits the crime.

“The charged offense was the speeding, not anything to do with the profanity,” Carroll said. “So not only is the judge punishing a crime for which the individual is not charged, but beyond that, I think you would be hard-pressed to find a person who would say 30 days seems like an appropriate sentence in jail for somebody who uttered the word ass in frustration. Which is, I think, if you look at the facts of this case, is what happened.”

And what distinguishes this case from others is not the ordering of the apology, she said, but the “disproportionate punishment.” It’s the consequences of failing to be remorseful that the judge is imposing.

“And that I think, makes it really unusual,” she said. “And I think raises some questions about proportionality.” 

Burks said he is not only fighting the decision because he and his attorney believe it to be constitutionally unsound but because he fears it would set a bad precedent and result in other drivers, particularly those of color, being wrongfully punished.

“I think I deserve an apology and my kids deserve an apology before he does,” Burks said. “Because they got a tardy in school.”

Janelle Griffith is a national reporter for NBC News focusing on issues of race and policing.

Electric vehicles are ushering in the return of rear-wheel drive. Here's why.

Over the past 40 years, front-wheel drive (FWD) has become the dominant layout for everyday autos. And for good reason. For a car designed for safety and efficiency, FWD offers quite a few advantages over rear-wheel drive (RWD). For a front-engine car, having the front wheels driven means no bulky driveshaft taking up room in the cabin. That means more room inside for passengers and cargo. 

Omitting that drive shaft also potentially saves weight, which helps improve fuel economy. However, the most significant factor has proven to be safety and low-grip controllability. Front-drive cars are simply easier to drive — or perhaps it's better to say that they're harder to crash.  

While front-wheel drive cars have been a fixture of the automobile industry since its very inception, they only came to really dominate the market here in the U.S. after the big fuel economy push in the 1970s. Since then, they've taken over the industry, with only a few sports and luxury cars staying true to RWD.

Now, there are early signs that the trend may be reversing. The single-motor configuration of every Tesla, meaning the Models 3 and Y, plus the Cybertruck , are all RWD. Volvo also made headlines when it changed its electric XC40 Recharge to RWD and then doubled down by designing its upcoming EX30 to be RWD, as well .  

While AWD is still available as an option, RWD is now the default configuration for those two Volvo EVs. For a safety-minded company like Volvo that had been developing front-drive-based cars for decades, it was a fascinating move. Clearly, when it comes to the capabilities and potential of an electric platform, RWD is starting to make a lot of sense again.  

FWD vs. RWD: The physics of driving 

Let's take a quick look at the physics of FWD vs. RWD. It's best to keep in mind the classic traction circle when thinking about this, which is a way to visualize the maximum amount of grip offered by a tire. You can use that grip for maximum acceleration, maximum braking, or maximum turning. But when you start to mix those actions — turning while accelerating or braking, for example — you must give up grip in one direction or another.  

In other words, if you try to accelerate full throttle while turning, whether you’re in a FWD- or RWD-based car, you're probably going to run out of grip, and that could lead to a bad time. 

In a RWD car, the front tires handle all the turning duties while the rear tires handle all the accelerating, which in theory means more overall performance. The problem is what happens when you try to do too much at once. Imagine accelerating too hard out of a corner in a RWD car. In this case, the rear tires generally lose grip first, which can result in the car spinning quickly. If you're an experienced driver, this can be a recipe for a good time .  

If, however, you're a bit less experienced, it can be a recipe for a disaster. 

Now imagine accelerating too hard out of a corner in a FWD car. In this case, the front tires generally lose grip first. Instead of the car spinning, the nose simply starts to slide wide. To catch this, typically all you need to do is lift off the throttle. The front tires will regain their grip, and the car will again resume turning like nothing happened.

While this behavior is a lot less fun than RWD, it is safer and, again, more predictable for rookie drivers. It does have some drawbacks, though. Because you're both accelerating and turning through the front wheels, those tires are doing double duty. The rear wheels, meanwhile, are just along for the ride.  

Overall, the decision between RWD and FWD is a trade-off between fun performance and safe efficiency. For companies interested in safety, that has made it an easy choice when designing a new car. But the assets and capabilities of EVs are starting to change that equation.  

RWD for acceleration

 To look at one of the primary advantages of RWD, you need to move past the traction circle and move into some basic physics. In essence, a tire with more weight applied to it will provide more grip. 

And what happens when you accelerate? The car's weight shifts backward thanks to inertia. This, then, gives the rear tires more grip. When most FWD cars were making less than 150 horsepower, as was the norm 20 years ago, this wasn't a big deal.  

Today's EVs, though, make a lot more. The single-motor, two-wheel-drive Volvo EX30 makes 268 horsepower. According to John Lundegren, engineering manager at Volvo and tech lead for the EX30's driving experience, that simply wouldn't have worked going through the front wheels.

"On the EX30, specifically, we have quite a lot of power, over 200 kilowatts of power,” he said. “And if you have that, you basically have to have it in the back to get the traction you need. So the traction is on the rear wheel." 

That was a primary reason why Volvo opted to put the motor in the two-wheel-drive EX30 at the rear. But, Lundegren says, a RWD configuration allowed Volvo to maximize the available grip, as well.  

 "It also comes with another benefit, which is that you separate the steering from the powered axle,” he said. “So you get better steering and a better feel for the driving experience." 

But what about the risk of spinning the car from a lack of grip? That's where modern technology enters the equation. 

Wireless EV charging: Oak Ridge National Laboratory says it’s coming

Stability control

Every new car on American roads today must have some form of electronic stability control, which can actively apply the brakes on individual corners of the car to keep it from spinning out when a loss of control occurs.  

This is combined with traction control, which cuts power to wheels that are spinning under acceleration. In the 1970s, when FWD cars began to become the norm, traction control was an extremely rare thing and stability control was decades away. The addition of these systems has made RWD a viable option again. 

The switch to electrification makes these systems even more effective. On cars with internal combustion engines, traction control usually works by either automatically closing the throttle or even cutting the spark on the engine. Either solution is simple and effective, but neither offers the finesse and quick response offered by electric motors.  

With electric motors, the amount of power generated has nothing to do with physical things like throttle cables or, indeed, sparks that cause vaporized fuel to explode. Because of this, traction and stability control systems on EVs can react far more quickly to address spinning wheels or spinning cars.  

The capability of these systems makes RWD possible in a car like the EX30, Volvo's Lundegren said. That's especially true when driven on low-grip surfaces like glare ice, where the company did extensive testing.  

"You have quite a lot of power from these engines, so if you wouldn't have this spin control, you would need to be very, very gentle with the throttle,” Lundegren said, referring to driving the car on ice. “Otherwise you would spin around directly. I would say just turning the systems off for regular customers would make the car impossible to use." 

So although a rear-drive car might be less stable in some situations, advanced stability and traction control systems make up for that, ensuring that even new drivers always stay in control.  

What about regen?

Regenerative braking, particularly one-pedal driving , is a way of slowing an electric or hybrid car down without using the brakes. Instead, the electric motor is used as a generator, providing resistance that slows down the car. 

This not only saves you brake wear but also significantly extends the range of the car by providing a charge into the battery. 

Consider what we learned above about inertia, about how an accelerating car will have more weight and grip at the rear wheels. That works when decelerating, too, but in reverse. A car that's braking has more grip at the nose, which is why virtually every car on the road has bigger, more powerful front brakes. 

Given that, it seemingly makes sense to have the electric motor up front so that the car could use maximum regenerative braking. But, Lundegren says, that's not an issue. 

"That is not a big factor, not what we have seen, at least," he said. According to Volvo's testing, there's plenty of grip at the rear wheels to meet the EX30's regenerative braking needs. 

Compared to all-wheel drive 

We've primarily been talking about FWD vs. RWD, but all-wheel drive is also quite common in electric cars, usually provided by a pair of electric motors, one at the front and another at the back.  

AWD theoretically offers the best solution, making maximum use of grip of all four tires under acceleration while providing improved front regen under deceleration. 

But Lundegren says that in dry conditions, at least, the AWD EX30 doesn't behave significantly differently than the RWD model. That car only engages the front motor when the rear loses grip, using a clutch at the front axle to quickly bring the front motor into use when needed. 

"If you're accelerating a bit hard in a roundabout or a curve taking up speed, then you will have micro-slip, and then you will have the front motor engaged," he said. "But I would say if you're just cruising, normal speed, gently accelerating, then it's only the rear motor that is activated, and the benefit of that is that it's not using excessive consumption." 

The extra power of the front motor certainly makes for a quicker car, and in especially low-grip situations like in snow and ice, there will be greater confidence from the dual-motor setup. But it comes with a loss of range and additional cost. 

2024 Chevrolet Blazer SUV: GM suspends sales of EV due to quality issues

Other advantages 

 Acceleration, deceleration and stability control are the major factors when we're talking about RWD vs. FWD electric cars, but the unique layout and design of EVs help change the equation, as well. 

For one thing, when we're talking about electric cars, there are no more driveshafts to worry about. Electric motors are so small that they can be placed exactly where they're needed. As a result, rear-drive EVs typically position the motor directly between the rear wheels.  

This means no bulky driveshaft to run from the engine up front to the driven wheels out back. This keeps the cabin layout clear for a flat floor, with lots of cargo and legroom for your passengers.  

EVs also tend to have a more optimal weight balance. While positioning the electric motor between the driven wheels helps, the bigger factor is the battery pack.  

Battery packs are upwards of 25 percent of the weight of an EV, and they tend to be wide and flat, making up the floor of the car. Because this weight is spread out, the weight of the car is more evenly distributed across all four wheels.  

And finally, there's the crucial fun factor. RWD cars are, simply, more enjoyable to drive hard. They accelerate more quickly and tend to offer better handling and more grip. When it came to designing the EX30, fun was indeed a priority for Lundegren and the engineers at Volvo: "It's actually an important part of the development of this product. It's our smallest car, we have the shortest wheelbase, it's got plenty of power, so we really wanted to keep it agile, fun to drive."

Bar Harbor businesses file motion against cruise ship ordinance

BAR HARBOR, Maine (WABI) - “It is an enormous amount of money that goes to our infrastructure, and the amount of visitations that we have is very stressed. And it’s going to be a ripple effect,” said Susan Stanley, Seagrass Gallery owner.

As Memorial Day approaches, coastal towns in Maine are gearing up for the tourism season.

But, businesses in one popular stop are fighting to let more visitors get there.

The Association to Preserve and Protect Local Livelihoods is a local non-profit that has filed a motion for a preliminary injunction against an ordinance that limits cruise ships in Bar Harbor to allow no more than 1000 passengers to come ashore each day.

“We formed a group of the citizens, taxpayers, and residents formed a group, a nonprofit to take the town’s orders to court and this latest filing is part of that process where we’re seeking injunctive relief to prevent the economic disruption,” Ocean Properties Director of Operations, Eben Salvatore.

The injunction would prevent the town from enforcing the ordinance until a court issues a final ruling on its legality.

“More than 90% of our visitors annually come on ships larger than that. And as you can imagine, if you’re a cruise ship, to have to pick and choose who you would like to come ashore and who would have to stay on board, it’s not something that you will do, so they’re just not coming. It’s harmful to the taxpayers, it’s harmful to the businesses and the owners and their employees and families, etc.,” said Salvatore.

“Bar Harbor has always been a tourism town, and people have arrived here on ships since the very beginning. So, this isn’t new in any regard. It’s not just the cruise ships. It’s the fact that they bring people back,” said Stanley.

Local businesses say return customers are a strong part of their income.

And, it’s not only the money being spent at these establishments.

“We do receive well over a million dollars in cruise ship fees, and that money is able to go to our town parks, our bathrooms, our sidewalks, our streetlamps,” said Stanley.

Like many other coastal towns recovering from storm devastation, businesses on Mount Desert Island are seeing the financial hardships from those storms.

“The only way to make up for the missing revenue is going to be raising our property taxes again. It’s got to be figured out somehow, and I think APPLL is more than willing to work with, you know, the other side about this, and I just hope that happens before it’s too late,” said Stanley.

Copyright 2024 WABI. All rights reserved.

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Indiana Pacers cruise past New York Knicks, tie series

The Pacers get a balanced scoring effort across the board as they beat the Knicks decisively in Game 4 to even the series. (2:32)

• ESPN.com NBA writer since 2010
• Covered Cleveland Cavs for seven years
• Author of two books

INDIANAPOLIS -- Blowing out a visiting team in a playoff game is commonplace. What mattered more in the wake of the Indiana Pacers ' 121-89 lopsided defeat of the New York Knicks in Sunday's game is whether it was an aberration or a tipping point.

The Pacers' game plan has become clear over their weekend sweep to even the second-round series 2-2: Do everything in their power to wear out the wounded and weary Knicks with giant emphasis on Jalen Brunson .

That has meant pressuring him as soon as he gets the ball, no matter where it is on the court. It has meant putting a bigger and more rugged defender, Aaron Nesmith , on him and challenging the referees by playing Brunson with much more physically. And it has meant using their depth advantage to play at speed, trying to run the Knicks to exhaustion.

A lot of things contributed to Sunday's result. The Pacers shot the ball brilliantly, making 57% of their shots and knocking down 14 3-pointers. The Knicks looked sluggish and a step slow. Especially guards Donte DiVincenzo , who shot just 3-of-17 over his past five quarters as his hot streak ended, and Josh Hart , who finally admitted Sunday that he's feeling fatigued after playing the first 10 quarters of the series without a break.

"I'm supposed to be the energy guy of the team and I didn't do anything," said Hart, who had just two points and three rebounds. "I gave nothing. I put that on my shoulders."

But it's Brunson who is the bellwether for the Knicks, and the Pacers know it. This series appears like it might hinge on whether Brunson, who has established a reputation for rising to the occasion especially when he's doubted, can do it yet again with the series now being essentially a best-of-three.

"His ascension to what he's become as a player, not many people have made a jump quite like him and I think we just need to make him work as much as possible and try to exert as much energy [as you can]," said Pacers guard T.J. McConnell , who is part of the effort. "He's obviously a great player, and we just got to keep picking him up 94 feet and try to make things tough on him."

Over the past two games, Brunson is shooting 9-of-27 against Nesmith. There's evidence of fatigue in Brunson's game, not to mention his sore right foot that popped up during Game 2. Over the two games in Indiana, Brunson missed 10 jumpers short. Also, per Second Spectrum tracking, Brunson was jumping about 2.5 inches lower on his shots than his season-long average.

He scored 18 points Sunday but shot just 6-of-17. He was just 16-of-42 overall in Games 3 and 4 against the Pacers' new aggressive, energy-zapping look.

Brunson, as is his style and the Knicks' creed, rejected the premise.

"We can talk about fresher legs and you can give us all the pity that we want," Brunson said. "Yeah, we're shorthanded, but that doesn't matter right now. We have what we have and we need to go forward with that. ... There is no excuse. There's no excuse whatsoever. If we lose, we lose. That's what that was."

Losing Mitchell Robinson , now out for the season because of an ankle injury, and OG Anunoby , out the past two games and likely Game 5 because of a hamstring injury suffered in Game 2, the Knicks are starting to show signs of wear.

The Pacers were especially looking to take advantage of this as the afternoon start meant there was less than 48 hours between Games 3 and 4. The Pacers led 34-14 after one quarter with Tyrese Haliburton jump-starting the team with a pair of 3-pointers out of the gate on his way to 20 points.

Indiana eventually pushed the lead to as much as 30 points before halftime with Pascal Siakam and Myles Turner combining to go 9-of-10 shooting as they led a parade to the basket with the Knicks unable to stay in front of their man on defense.

"We're disappointed," Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau said. "And the thing is we can't have a hangover, we have to fix it and we have to come with a will and a determination to respond to what happened. And this team has responded all year, so that's what we're expecting to do. We got to put the work into it and be ready to go."

Thibodeau pulled the plug late in the third quarter, trying to at least give the Knicks' front line some rest ahead of Tuesday's Game 5. After the coach talked to the team following the merciful final buzzer, Knicks guard Miles McBride said some of the team leaders spoke to the room about the need to bounce back in Game 5.

"We've already talked about how we're going to fix this," said McBride, who broke out of a slump to score 16 points. "So, we'll bounce back a lot better."

The Pacers haven't lost at home since March 18, a streak of 10 games, including 5-0 in the playoffs. The Knicks, who are now just 13-16 when Anunoby doesn't play this season, are placing more urgency on Tuesday's game at Madison Square Garden.

"New York is a team that has shown that it has an indomitable will to compete and rise above anything people say they can't do," Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said. "And we've seen it throughout the season. We've seen it in this series. We're believers in that, and so we got to focus on us. ... Everything is going to be a situation where you've got your hands completely full."

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8 Zelenograd, the Soviet Silicon Valley, 1962–1965

• Published: October 2005
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This chapter focuses on the construction of Zelenograd, the Soviet Silicon Valley, during the period from 1962–1965. The chapter reveals that Khrushchev signed the postanovlenie, or official decree, on August 8, 1962, authorizing the establishment of a center of microelectronics, to be called the “Scientific Center,” near Kryukovo railroad station. The satellite city was officially named Zelenograd (Green City) on January 15, 1963, by a decree of the Moscow Executive Committee. The first planned city in the Soviet Union, it was designed to accommodate approximately 65,000 people. Its designers had been influenced by the British New Town movement. Unlike in other Soviet industrial centers, where apartment buildings were often built adjacent to belching industrial smokestacks, living areas and factories were located in separate areas. Located 25 miles north of the Kremlin, Zelenograd was declared a part of Moscow.

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