Benz goes Distronic Plus

MERCEDES-BENZ will offer its Distronic Plus active cruise control on its S-class luxury sedan from December after solving technical issues with the Australian Communications and Media Authority surrounding the introduction of ultra-wideband (UWB) vehicle radar technology.

Amendments to the Australian Radio frequency Spectrum Plan were needed to allow the technology, which operates in the 22-26.5GHz frequency band, to be introduced.

"The frequency that Distronic Plus operates on (24GHz) has required a change to the federal radio frequencies legislation," Mercedes Car Group (DaimlerChrysler Australia/Pacific) managing director Horst von Sanden said.

"The use of an ultra-wide bandwidth ensures a significant level of accuracy." Mercedes claims its system, available for $3900, will be the most affordable adaptive cruise control in its segment (although BMW’s 3 Series Coupe has it for $2900).