Ford Mondeo gets Adaptive Cruise Control

Ford has announced that its new Mondeo will get Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) technology as an option. The adoption of ACC technology, which has appeared previously in cars such as Volvo's S80 and more recently the new Jaguar XF, provides a significant safety boost by maintaining a pre-set distance from the vehicle in front and automatically decelerating when another vehicle enters this buffer zone. One the pre-set distance is renewed the vehicle then accelerates back to cruising speed.

Ford's ACC uses radar technology fitted behind the Mondeo’s front grille and allows the driver to choose one of five time-gap options at any speed above 20mph with a default time gap of five seconds being the middle option. A free cruising mode is also available roads where traffic isn't an issue and as with standard cruise control, manual braking or gear changes automatically override ACC.

Volker Weinhold, Ford active safety supervisor, explained its multiple safety-related advantages: “Collision mitigation is another benefit, with audible and visual alerts warning of situations that may lead to a collision.

“This collision mitigation feature is integrated into ACC, preparing the car's braking system for immediate action. Once a risk is detected, pressure within the braking system is increased for a quicker response if the driver presses the brake pedal – saving precious seconds in an emergency situation."

“The overriding benefit of ACC is driver comfort. In day-to-day driving, especially on motorways and busy high-speed roads, ACC eliminates the need for constant speed adjustment in changing traffic conditions.”

U.K. drivers will pay an extra £1,000 for the system which will be available on Zetec, Ghia, Titanium and Titanium X models.