Adaptive cruise control is a driving assistance feature that automatically adjusts a vehicle's speed to maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead. For instance, if a driver using adaptive cruise control on a Ford Maverick approaches a slower car, the Maverick will automatically slow down to keep a safe distance.
Adaptive cruise control enhances driving safety by reducing the risk of rear-end collisions. It also eases driver fatigue by eliminating the need for constant speed adjustments, particularly during long highway drives. The technology traces its roots to the 1990s, when it was first introduced on high-end luxury vehicles. Today, adaptive cruise control has become commonplace in vehicles across all price ranges.