Abstract: A method and an apparatus based thereon for automatically controlling the velocity of a vehicle (14) under consideration of preceding vehicles (15, 16, 17) are described. To select a preceding vehicle as the control target, an area of the possible future travel (18) is determined. When the controlled vehicle is about to and/or is beginning to change lanes, the determined area of future travel is expanded (19).

Abstract: The invention is directed to an automatic standstill brake for motor vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission wherein a braking pressure is generated at the wheel-brake cylinders via devices operating on the brake circuit of the motor vehicle. The automatic standstill brake prevents a rolling of the motor vehicle when at standstill. The standstill brake operates when the motor vehicle has come to standstill and the driver has released the brake pedal so that it goes into its rest position. The standstill brake includes a computer which provides an output for a signal transmitter which supplies an actuating signal which, in turn, is applied to the devices operating on the brake circuit thereby causing the standstill brake to become engaged or disengaged.

Abstract: An automatic speed and distance control apparatus responsive to detected signals and operator induced signals for automatically controlling the speed of an automotive vehicle and its distance with respect to objects in its path of movement. A flexible control scheme is provided, which permits a driver to intervene in the operation of the system when he or she wishes to accelerate in preparation for a passing maneuver. Upon interruption of the operation by a vehicle driver, the control apparatus is interrupted for a predetermined period of time and thereafter resuming automatic control function.