Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/619701
E arly cruise control systems were usually vacuum-controlled setups designed to allow drivers to set a vehicle speed and hold it indefi nitely. The systems worked well on fl at unvary- ing terrain and gave drivers a much- needed break from making constant thro le inputs. But the systems had their limita- tions: They could hold the throttle at only one position, with no way to adjust automatically for changing ter- rain. Even worse, fuel economy often took a hit: It was not uncommon for a vehicle climbing a grade in cruise mode to suddenly apply full throttle in a futile effort to maintain the preset speed. Cruise control has come a long way. Fleets today rely on modern interactive systems that maintain safe following distances and serve as the heart of modern integrated drive- trains, with engines and transmissions |Tomorrow's Trucks | Modern cruise control coming of age and what it means for your fl eet and drivers By Jack Roberts 16 www.studentdriverplacement.com January '16 By anticipating the terrain ahead using GPS, Predictive Cruise Control ensures that Paccar engines and the truck's transmission are in the most effi cient operating mode to increase fuel economy.