Cruise control, a vehicle feature that automates speed maintenance, eliminates the need for constant manual acceleration input. For instance, when driving on a long, straight highway, cruise control allows drivers to set and maintain a desired speed, reducing fatigue and enhancing focus.
Cruise control's significance lies in its ability to improve driving comfort, increase fuel efficiency by maintaining steady speeds, and enhance safety by reducing driver workload and potential distractions. Its historical development began in the 1950s, with the first commercially available system introduced in 1958 by Chrysler.