Nissan will introduce two pioneering technologies with its new Fuga, set for release in Japan this month – the world’s first Distance Control Assist and navigation-enabled Intelligent Cruise Control systems.The Distance Control Assist system determines the following distance of the driver’s vehicle, as well as the relative speed of both vehicles, using a radar sensor installed in the front bumper.
When a vehicle approaches close to the vehicle ahead and the accelerator is not engaged, the system activates the brakes to decelerate smoothly. Alternately, if the accelerator is engaged, the acceleration actuator is activated through a “push back” mechanism to help the driver to release the pedal.
In a situation where the vehicle ahead slows down or brakes, requiring the driver to respond by braking, the system instantly alerts the driver through message and audio warnings. Simultaneously, the system pushes back the accelerator to assist the driver to switch to the brakes.Accelerator Pedal ActuatorIn a situation where the vehicle ahead slows down or brakes, requiring the driver to respond by braking, the system instantly alerts the driver through message and audio warnings. Simultaneously, the system pushes back the accelerator to assist the driver to switch to the brakes.
The Intelligent Cruise Control system operates using information from a radar sensor installed in the front bumper. When following a vehicle ahead, the system controls following distance appropriately, using the driver’s preset speed is the maximum limit. With no vehicle ahead, the vehicle cruises at the constant driver preset speed. Utilizing route-information fed through the on-board navigation system, the Intelligent Cruise Control system can modulate the vehicle-speed in anticipation of the next curve on the road. When approaching a curve, the system gradually decelerates, and as it clears the turn onto a straight road, the system seamlessly resumes to its original speed.
When both the Distance Control Assist and Intelligent Cruise Control are installed, the driver can select either function setting, using a wheel-mounted switch according to different driving conditions.