Adaptive Cruise Control

sutak · February 14, 2003

I just read about the adaptive cruise control. When activated it will keep the vehicle so many seconds behind another. This distance can be increased by dialing in 3,4,5 seconds. The computer adjusts the distance based on speed as well. The gap between vehicles is controlled by adjusting the throttle or even brakes if necessary.

Anyone knows if there is an aftermarket option like this available?

BKColeman · February 14, 2003

I've never heard of an aftermarket one, but I bet it would be expensive. I think that is a $3000 option on the new Mercedes, which is quite a chunk of change over the normal cruise control (which is of course free).

lrymal · February 14, 2003

...The gap between vehicles is controlled by adjusting the throttle or even brakes if necessary.
Anyone knows if there is an aftermarket option like this available?

I'm sure it exists, but I don't see how it be realistically useable in the Houston area. Anytime you get safe space between you and the vehicle ahead of you, drivers will zip around you and fill in the space. Most drivers in this area have no concept at all of safety zones around vehicles.

I don't even know why Houstonians drive nice cars. I mean, what's the point. They need armored trucks.

Sorry for the deviation. I just don't see how such a device could be practical when you are in a string of heavy traffic, with both frontal and rear issues in relation to your vehicle.