On highways, DRCC functions similarly to conventional "constant speed" cruise control in that it helps vehicles travel at a consistent speed set by the driver, but this system adds a vehicle-to-vehicle distance control mode which assists the driver by adjusting vehicle speed (within a set range) to help maintain a preset distance to a preceding vehicle when the preceding vehicle is traveling at a lower speed.
Once a vehicle speed is set by the driver (approximately 28 mph or higher), DRCC uses a front-grille-mounted, millimeter-wave radar and an in-vehicle camera to detect a preceding vehicle and help determine its distance.
If the vehicle ahead is detected traveling at a speed slower than your set speed or within your distance range setting, the system is designed to automatically decelerate your vehicle without having to cancel the cruise control. When a greater reduction in vehicle speed is necessary, the system may apply the brakes, may alert the driver by using an audio and visual alert, and may operate your vehicle brake lights. The system will then respond to changes in the speed of the vehicle ahead in order to help maintain the vehicle-to-vehicle distance set by the driver. When there is no longer a preceding vehicle driving slower than your vehicle's set speed, the system accelerates until the set speed is reached and returns to constant speed cruising.
DRCC 12 is designed to function at speeds of approximately 25 to 110 mph. However, vehicle speed must be above approximately 28 mph to initiate DRCC, as that is the lowest set speed.
Starting with certain 2016 Prius models, select Toyota vehicles may also feature the new Full-Speed Range DRCC, 12 which is designed to also work at speeds below 25 mph. Full-Speed Range DRCC 12 may enable low-speed following, speed matching, stopping and acceleration/deceleration to a preceding vehicle. Full-Speed Range DRCC 12 is designed to function at speeds between approximately 0 to 110 mph and is intended for highway use.