Abstract: A method and system for controlling an internal combustion engine upon initial entry into a speed control mode and upon transitions between dynamic operating modes of a speed control system includes means for determining an actual vehicle acceleration and means for determining an actual wheel torque. A controller determines an initial desired wheel torque based on the actual vehicle acceleration and the actual wheel torque and controls the torque generated by the engine based on the initial desired wheel torque so as to smoothly control the speed of the vehicle.

Abstract: An intake system for a multicylinder internal combustion engine includes a manifold having inlet runners for conducting charge air into the cylinders of an engine, and at least one secondary throttle valve situated within at least one of the inlet runners. An actuator positions the secondary throttle valve, with the actuator being operated by a controller. The controller receives a sensed value from at least one engine operating parameter sensor, determines an appropriate position for the secondary throttle valve and predicts an optimum transition point at which the secondary throttle valve transitions to the appropriate position. The controller then initiates operation of the actuator at a point before the transition point such that the engine smoothly transitions between a first operating condition and a second operating condition.