Cruise Control Warning: Drivers Urged to Use Feature Only on Flat Roads
A significant warning has been issued to all drivers who have cruise control installed in their vehicles. Despite this feature becoming increasingly standard on new cars, many motorists remain hesitant to use it, and according to the RAC, this reluctance might be justified for specific driving conditions.
Fuel Economy Impact on Non-Flat Surfaces
The RAC emphasizes that cruise control only aids fuel economy "when driving on a constant flat surface." The organization explains that maintaining a constant speed is key to saving fuel, and cruise control can achieve this effectively on flat roads by eliminating unnecessary acceleration, thus optimizing driving efficiency.
However, using cruise control regularly on non-flat terrain, such as hilly roads, can lead to increased fuel consumption. This occurs because the system is slower to react to gradient changes. For instance, when approaching the brow of a hill, a driver would typically ease off the accelerator to maintain a more constant speed while descending. In contrast, cruise control continues to apply power slightly longer, as it cannot anticipate the upcoming slope change ahead.
Optimal Use on Motorways
The RAC further notes that the most fuel-efficient roads in the country are not quiet extra-urban dual carriageways or 20mph city streets but rather motorways. On these highways, drivers can leave their cars in top gear and cruise gently, using minimal fuel. This makes motorways the ideal environment for employing cruise control to enhance fuel savings.
How Cruise Control Functions
We Buy Any Car provides additional insight, describing cruise control as a form of driving on auto-pilot. Typically activated and controlled via buttons on the steering wheel while driving, the main controls include on/off, set, cancel, and resume functions. By simply pressing these buttons, drivers can set a constant speed for their vehicle without needing to keep their foot on the accelerator pedal, offering convenience and potential efficiency benefits when used appropriately.
In summary, while cruise control can be a valuable tool for improving fuel economy on flat surfaces like motorways, drivers are cautioned against its use on hilly roads to avoid unintended increases in fuel consumption. Adhering to these guidelines can help motorists make the most of this advanced feature while promoting safer and more economical driving practices.
