Descending slopes at a constant speed without operating the brakes
On slippery roads, rough surfaces, and steep downward slopes, drivers need to apply the brakes carefully to avoid the wheels locking. At the touch of a button, Hill Descent Control technology maintains a set vehicle speed in the low speed range between approximately three and 20 km/h*. By reducing the amount of slipping caused by over-application of the brake on a hill, the driver can concentrate on steering the vehicle.
While Hill Descent Control is activated, the driver can adjust the speed setting within the operating range (approx. 3–20 km/h) by stepping on the accelerator pedal or the brake pedal. When the pedal is released, the speed at that time becomes the Hill Descent Control speed setting.
*The system might not activate on gentle downward slopes.
Hill Descent Control operation
Four-wheel independent braking control prevents wheel locking while adjusting speed
When the Hill Descent Control switch is pressed, the current speed, as detected by wheel speed sensors, becomes the speed setting. The gradient of the slope is ascertained from signals from a G-force sensor that detects forward and backward acceleration. Hill Descent Control is activated if the vehicle speed increases while descending a slope with a steep gradient. Slipping is detected from differences in rotation captured by wheel speed sensors on the four wheels and the brakes on each of the four wheels are controlled independently to prevent wheel locking. The system turns off when the Hill Descent Control switch is pressed again or when the vehicle reaches 60 km/h by application of the accelerator.
Hill Descent Control is not a system that can maintain a constant
vehicle speed in any driving conditions.
When driving on steep downward slopes or slippery roads, the system
might not be able to maintain a constant speed, potentially leading to
an unforeseen accident.
The system does not enhance a vehicle’s performance limits. Always check
the road conditions and be sure to drive safely.
