Hill descent control

Updated 19/03/2020

Hill descent control, Hill Descent Control (HDC), is a low speed function with enhanced engine braking. The function makes it possible to increase or reduce vehicle speed on steep downhill gradients using only the accelerator pedal, without using the foot brake.

In a car with drive mode control*, the function is included in the Off Road drive mode.

Hill descent control is adapted for off-road driving at low speeds and facilitates driving on steep downhill gradients with difficult surfaces. The driver does not need to use the brake pedal, but can instead focus on steering.

Warning

HDC does not work in all situations but is designed merely as a supplementary aid.

The driver always bears ultimate responsibility for ensuring that the vehicle is driven safely.

Function

Hill descent control allows the car to roll at inching speed both forward and backward, assisted by the brake system. The speed can be increased by using the accelerator pedal. When the accelerator pedal is then released the car slows back down to crawling speed, regardless of the gradient of the hill and without the need for the foot brake to be used. The brake lights are switched on when the function is operating.

The driver can brake and reduce crawling speed, or stop the car at any time by using the foot brake.

The function is activated together with Low Speed Control (LSC) which facilitates driving and improves traction for driving off-road and on slippery surfaces. The systems are designed for use at low speed, up to approx. 40 km/h (25 mph).

Points to remember when driving with HDC

If the function is disabled while driving on a steep downhill gradient, the braking effect will gradually decrease.

With automatic gearbox

HDC can be used in gear position D, R, and with 1st or 2nd gear with manual gear changing.
It is not possible to change to 3rd gear or higher with manual gear changing.

With manual gearbox

HDC only brakes in 1st gear or with reverse gear (R). There is no active braking in higher gears even though the function is not deactivated until approx. 40 km/h (25 mph).

Note

When LSC with HDC is activated, the feel of the accelerator pedal and engine response are changed.

Note

The driving mode is not designed to be used on public roads.

Note

The function is deactivated when driving at higher speeds and must be reactivated at a lower speed, if required.