We know what summer driving often includes - heavy traffic and long jams. This stop-and-go driving is not only a test of patience, but also increases the risk of rear-end collisions. Volkswagen’s Traffic Jam Assist could be the answer.

The constant braking and acceleration encountered during a long traffic jam is especially strenuous for the driver. When Traffic Jam Assist assumes control of these tasks, it not only unburdens the driver, but also helps reduce the types of collisions typically encountered in such situations.

This innovative assistance system is already available together with the dual clutch gearbox (DSG) on the Golf, Golf Variant, Tiguan, Touran, Passat, Passat Variant and Arteon. Relevant crash analyses from EuroNCAP show that cars with emergency braking systems active even at low speeds are involved in 38 per cent fewer rear-end collisions.

This innovative assistance system works using the ACC Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist lane keeping system in combination. The radar sensor in the front end of the vehicle monitors traffic ahead, while the camera in the windscreen tracks the road markings. Using Traffic Jam Assist, the Volkswagen maintains a consistent distance from the car ahead at speeds of up to 60 km/h in stop-and-go traffic while keeping within the appropriate lane of traffic. The driver of course can intervene at any time and override the system.

Although Traffic Jam Assist cannot replace the driver’s need to pay attention, it is nevertheless supportive in stop-and-go traffic and works to create a less stressful holiday journey for everyone on board.