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DISTRONIC proximity and cruise control system:
now fitted in more than 40,000 cars worldwide
A radar sensor behind the radiator grille enables the system to maintain a constant distance to the vehicle in front. DISTRONIC thus significantly enhances driver comfort, especially on heavily congested stretches of road, by reducing stress at the wheel and making driving more relaxing. The findings of the DaimlerChrysler research division show that the reaction time of drivers using DISTRONIC is up to 40 per cent faster than that of those without this assistance system. The proximity and cruise control system can also improve road safety levels. Insufficient distance between vehicles is the third most common cause of accidents in Germany; some twelve per cent of severe traffic accidents occur because people are driving too close. Failure to keep sufficient distance is also the cause of many of the driving bans imposed by the courts and authorities. This is the penalty due if the distance to the vehicle in front, when travelling at speeds above 100 km/h, is less than two tenths of half the speed shown on the speedometer. Thus at a speed of 120, this would be anything less than twelve metres. Proximity control by automatic application of brakes The DISTRONIC system uses one of the fastest and most powerful micro-computers
ever developed for use in a motor vehicle. It takes the signals from the
radar sensor, the three transmission and receiving units of which scan
the full width of a three-lane motorway over a distance of approximately
100 metres and recognise any moving vehicles ahead. The reflection of
the radar impulses and the change in their frequency enables the system
to calculate the correct distance and the relative speed between the vehicles.
Should the distance to the vehicle in front reduce, the proximity and
cruise control system immediately reduces acceleration or should
this be necessary applies the brake. Once the distance increases
again, DISTRONIC steps in again as a conventional cruise control system
and, at speeds of between 30 and 180 km/h, will maintain the desired speed
as programmed. If more drastic action should become necessary, the system
will alert the driver with a warning light in the instrument cluster and
with an acoustic signal. In this case the driver must apply the brakes
himself.
Although New-Cars.com checks with auto manufacturers and their representatives to confirm the accuracy of the data, it makes no guarantee or warranty, either expressed or implied with respect to the data presented here. All specifications, prices and equipment are subject to change without notice. New-Cars.com Home - News Archives - Car Reviews - New Car Price Quote - Privacy Policy - Contact Us Copyright © 2002 New-Cars.com
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