What is Cruise Control in a Car? A Complete Guide for UAE Drivers
Master your highway drives in the UAE by understanding how cruise control works, its types, benefits and when to use it safely.
Driving across the wide roads of the UAE can be an exciting experience until you find yourself stuck in long-distance highway drives or facing constant speed monitoring. This is exactly where modern driving technology comes to the rescue. One such feature is cruise control, a system designed to make driving smoother, safer, and less tiring. If you’re wondering what cruise control is in a car, you’re in the right place.
In this blog, we’ll explain how cruise control works, its types, and why it’s a must-have feature, especially for UAE roads. Whether you’re commuting between Dubai and Abu Dhabi or planning a road trip across the Emirates, understanding cruise control can truly elevate your driving experience.
What is Cruise Control in a Car?
Cruise control in a car is an advanced driver-assistance feature that allows your vehicle to maintain a constant speed without needing to press the accelerator. Once activated, the system takes control of the throttle and keeps the car moving at the selected speed. This feature is especially useful for highway driving, where speeds are steady and consistent.
Before diving into types and benefits, it’s worth knowing that cruise control helps reduce fatigue, promotes safer driving, and even improves fuel efficiency.
Types of Cruise Control in a Car
Not all cruise control systems are the same. As automotive technology has advanced, cruise control has evolved from a simple speed-holding tool to a highly intelligent driving assistant. In the UAE, where highway travel is frequent, understanding the different types of cruise control in a car can help you choose the right vehicle for your needs and driving habits.
1. Traditional Cruise Control
This is the most basic type. Once you set your desired speed, the car maintains it until you either press the brake or cancel the function. It’s best suited for open highways where traffic is light. Although useful, it doesn’t adapt to surrounding vehicles.
Moreover, you still need to be attentive and manually slow down or speed up as traffic conditions change. Still, it’s a great option for long journeys where maintaining a steady speed can save both time and fuel.
2. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Adaptive cruise control is a smarter, more advanced version. It not only maintains your set speed but also adjusts it based on the distance from the vehicle ahead. Using radar and sensors, the system automatically slows down or speeds up to keep a safe following distance.
In places like Sheikh Zayed Road or the Abu Dhabi-Dubai highway, this feature can be a game-changer. It reduces the need for constant speed adjustments, making your drive far less stressful.
3. Intelligent Cruise Control
This is the next level. Intelligent systems integrate GPS and traffic data to adjust speed according to road conditions. For example, if you’re approaching a curve or an exit, the system will reduce your speed proactively.
Though less common, more premium vehicles in the UAE are now offering this as part of their advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).
Benefits of Cruise Control in a Car
Now that we know what cruise control is in a car, let’s understand why it’s becoming an essential feature for drivers in the UAE. From reducing fatigue during long drives to helping you stay within speed limits, cruise control offers a range of practical advantages. Whether you’re commuting daily or planning a weekend road trip, this smart feature can truly elevate your driving experience.
Reduced Driver Fatigue
Long drives can wear you out, especially on long stretches of empty highways. Cruise control reduces the physical strain of maintaining speed, allowing drivers to stay more focused and alert.
Better Fuel Economy
By maintaining a steady speed, cruise control helps reduce unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. This leads to better fuel efficiency, a huge plus considering rising fuel prices in the region.
Improved Safety
Modern cruise control systems help maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. Adaptive systems are especially useful during moderate traffic flow, lowering the risk of rear-end collisions.
Helps Avoid Speeding Fines
In the UAE, speed cameras are everywhere. Accidentally speeding by even a few km/h can result in fines. Cruise control helps you stay within speed limits effortlessly. You can learn more about avoiding fines through the Abu Dhabi Police traffic services portal.
How to Use Cruise Control in a Car
Using cruise control in a car is easier than you might think. Before diving into the steps, it’s helpful to understand the basics so you feel confident on the road.
If you’re using cruise control for the first time, here’s a simple guide:
-
Reach your desired speed, usually 80-120 km/h, on UAE highways.
-
Activate the cruise control button on your steering wheel or stalk.
-
Set your speed; once set, your car maintains it automatically.
-
Use the ‘+’ or ‘-’ controls to adjust the speed.
-
Cancel anytime by braking, clutching (in manuals), or pressing the cancel button.
Always remember, cruise control is a helper, not a substitute for alert driving.
When You Shouldn’t Use Cruise Control
While cruise control can make long drives more comfortable, it’s not ideal for every situation. Knowing when to avoid it is just as important as knowing how to use it.
Despite its usefulness, there are times when using cruise control in a car isn’t recommended:
-
In heavy traffic
-
During rain or sandstorms
-
On winding or mountainous roads
-
In city driving zones
Knowing when to use it and when not to is key to staying safe.
Final Thoughts: Is Cruise Control in a Car Worth It?
Absolutely! If you frequently drive on highways, cruise control in a car can make your life easier. From boosting comfort to improving safety and saving fuel, this feature is becoming more relevant on today’s UAE roads. Whether you’re buying a new car or renting one for your next road trip, make sure it’s equipped with cruise control.
For more insights on essential car features in the UAE, don’t forget to check out our latest articles at ArabWheels.
