Delphi launches Adaptive Cruise Control

Residents of traffic-ridden cities, rejoice — Delphi has developed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) that can function in stop-and-go traffic.

Like the ACC we've been hearing about for a few years now, Delphi's technology uses radar to sense how much space is between you and the car ahead of you, but until this technology, the application was strictly for cruising on the highway — in the city, the technology was thwarted by manhole covers, poles, construction barrels and other objects that are easy for people to discern but particularly difficult for machines. Delphi claims its technology overcomes those obstacles with some advanced electronics and statistical modelling that helps the car discern size and shape of objects.

The technology, set to appear on two premium European vehicles next year, also implements a forward collision warning system.