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Dec 1, 2000 12:00 PM, MODERN BULK TRANSPORTER STAFF

Volvo Trucks North America Inc says an active safety feature called adaptive cruise control (ACC) is now available on certain Volvo VN highway tractors.

This Doppler radar-based system works in conjunction with the Volvo engine, Volvo engine brake, and an automated transmission to slow the vehicle if it comes within a three-second range of a vehicle in front of it. The controlled deceleration alerts the driver to maintain safe operation of the vehicle.

ACC and the collision warning system (CWS) work together to supplement a driver's own sense of road conditions.

The CWS assists the driver by advising when a vehicle encroaches upon the truck's safety zone. The ACC goes a step further by automatically slowing the vehicle, giving the driver additional time to act.

Cruise control must be on for the ACC feature to function. The system is programmed to engage if the vehicle's collision-warning radar detects a vehicle within a three-second range of the truck - approximately 280 feet at 65 mph.