More than 70 years after its invention by Ralph Teetor, cruise control has become standard on most new-generation cars. In addition to providing a comfortable and safe driving experience, cruise control is generally assumed to save more gas.
It is believed that by maintaining a constant speed, cruise control will save fuel consumption more effectively than if the driver manually keeps their foot on the pedal. So, “Does cruise control save gas?” The answer is “yes or no.” Let’s clarify this question in today’s article!
How does cruise control work?
Cruise control is also known by names such as: speed control or auto cruise. It is a technology that automatically maintains speed, allowing the driver to control the vehicle at a specific speed by managing the throttle connection. At that moment, you don’t need to use the accelerator or lift your foot off the pedal, but you can still be fully assured that your car is running steadily. Most cars have control buttons on or behind the steering wheel.
Cruise control takes speed measurements from different parts of the engine to assess how fast your car is moving at a given time. With the collected data and the specific speed set by the driver, the system will automatically adjust the speed based on input data and the amount of fuel injected into the combustion chamber. After activation, all you need to do is focus on steering. When encountering an obstacle, the driver presses the brake, and the car automatically deactivates cruise control, returning to normal driving mode.
Furthermore, for luxury cars, manufacturers also enhance this system with a speed limiter function. Specifically, when the Cruise Control function is activated, if your car is going downhill, the vehicle will actively slow down. Additionally, drivers can also set a speed limit so the vehicle does not exceed the permitted level when traveling in dense areas. Other modern cars are also equipped with adaptive cruise control. When driving, if your car encounters a slower vehicle ahead, the system automatically slows down and accelerates again when the vehicle in front moves at a faster speed.
If you are driving a long distance, you will get tired of having to keep your foot on the accelerator for several hours continuously. With exceptional capability, the Cruise Control system will make your journey more comfortable.
Does using cruise control save gas?
For a long time, cruise control has been considered a secret to help drivers save fuel. Is it just a myth or could it be a fact? and “Is cruise control better for gas mileage?”
Many drivers assume that using cruise control will reduce fuel consumption, thus saving costs. Now, let’s take a closer look.
In many cases, using cruise control can actually increase a car’s fuel economy by up to 5 to 15%. Vehicles consume the most fuel during acceleration, so the best way to achieve maximum fuel economy is to maintain speed. This is quite difficult to do if you only use the accelerator as usual. However, your car can easily maintain a specific speed through the use of cruise control. In some cases, even the speed difference experienced when going uphill or downhill is quite small when using the cruise control system.
However, please note that cruise control is a speed control (auto cruise) and not a fuel consumption control. The main purpose of the system is to maintain the speed set by the driver, regardless of other factors. Therefore, when encountering a steep uphill road, the car will increase the throttle to compensate for deceleration due to gravity. This means more fuel consumption.
The answer to the question “Is cruise control fuel-efficient?” Cruise control is truly effective when used by the driver under steady-speed driving conditions, on highways, or on flat roads with speed limits. Conversely, if you are driving a car on very busy roads or on mountainous terrain, where you must constantly brake to change the car’s speed, then activating cruise control will not save fuel.
Is cruise control bad for your car?
Our answer is “No.” Many people think that using cruise control will damage the transmission. Contrary to this belief, using cruise control does not lead to rapid transmission wear. In fact, regular use of cruise control can actually reduce transmission wear. This is because the car experiences the least wear when operating at a regular and constant speed for long periods.
Many people mistakenly believe that the car’s transmission will be damaged when the vehicle’s cruise control system causes the engine RPM to rise during downshifting. However, this is not the case at all, as downshifting is a safe method to quickly reduce speed for any type of vehicle.
Notes when using the cruise control system.
Using cruise control contributes to the driver’s comfort and relaxation when the accelerator is “Free.” However, in reality, using Cruise Control also carries many potential risks and can be counterproductive in terms of fuel consumption if driving is not done correctly. Therefore, drivers must be careful when using cruise control to ensure safety and fuel efficiency.
Consider traffic conditions before activating cruise control
During long drives, when using highways, drivers should pay attention to speed limit signs, set the cruise control so the car moves to release the accelerator, creating comfort and reducing fuel consumption. However, if drivers activate cruise control when passing through congested roads or traffic jams, it can be potentially dangerous. Because the driver will not be able to fully control the vehicle or may lack initiative when facing unexpected situations.
Do not use cruise control on certain roads.
When driving the car on steep roads and slippery roads, the driver should not activate the cruise control system. According to experts, the driver’s accelerator is “released,” which can lead to a slower driver response than normal. When operating, cruise control maintains the specific speed, helping the vehicle move steadily. However, when the vehicle is driving on slippery roads or in sharp turns. If the driver does not adjust the speed appropriately, your car can easily skid and deviate from the lane. Therefore, it is best not to activate cruise control in these situations.
Pay attention and stay focused
Cruise control is not an automatic driving system, so the driver must observe and remain focused. After activating the cruise control system, the driver must notice the traffic conditions as well as other vehicles on the road to handle any unforeseen situations.
The driver can adjust the vehicle’s speed using the control buttons usually indicated on the steering wheel. The operation of the accelerator pedal is also released accordingly, but your feet should always be in a position ready to press the pedal. This will help the driver react more quickly and safely. When encountering unexpected problems while minimizing the risk of accidentally pressing the accelerator.
Choose the right speed
The effectiveness of using cruise control depends on the speed. The usual appropriate speed level is around 60 to 80 km/h depending on the type of road. To achieve this speed, technical experts stated that attention must be paid to the RPM. Thus, at 1,500 RPM or less for popular cars, it is the best time to get the best effect.
As usual, the driver wants to drive at a speed of 60km/h. And press the accelerator hard to increase speed from a stop or low speed. To be able to use cruise control to save fuel. The driver should choose to press the accelerator slowly until reaching the appropriate level. The car will accelerate slowly and steadily, even if it takes more time to reach 60 km/h. Please press the accelerator lightly. Maintain this level until you reach the 60 threshold, then press Activate.
Final thoughts
To conclude the topic “Does cruise control save gas?” We want to make it clear once more. You should use cruise control on flat roads or highways. Because it will bring you a more interesting experience and save more fuel. But in other cases like steep roads, traffic jams… you should not activate the utility.
Using cruise control is a great way to control your speed when driving on the road. However, note that you should not use cruise control if you are likely to be tired while driving. Consider the Cruise Control system as a simple utility that helps the driver save energy. This way, you will enjoy your journeys in comfort and safety.