Hill Descent Control - Volvo XC90 Owner's Manual

STARTING AND DRIVING

Hill descent control*

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 driv-
ing 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, assis-
ted 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
458
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 slip-
pery 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.
•
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.
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.
Related information
•
Activating and deactivating hill descent con-
trol* with the function button (p. 459)
•
Changing drive mode* (p. 446)
•
Low speed control* (p. 456)
•
All-wheel drive* (p. 443)
* Option/accessory.