Mercedes-Benz's Distronic Plus system, for instance, contains radar-based sensors as part of its cruise-control system, to keep the car at a preset distance from the vehicle in front, braking automatically if the gap narrows quickly.

ECONOMIST: Rational consumer

Technology will keep the new cars at a safe distance from one another and eliminate common mistakes such as overcorrecting and excessive braking.

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The distance is monitored using sensors mounted at the front of the car, and braking or acceleration are applied automatically to ensure that it remains constant, thus reducing the chances of a collision.

ECONOMIST: Cars that drive themselves