Hill Start Assist Or Hill Hold Control - Feature Explained

What Is Hill Start Assist/Hill Hold Control? 

Hill start assist (HSA) or hill hold control (HHC) is a driver-assistance system designed to prevent your car from rolling backward when starting on an incline.  

How Does Hill Start Assist Work?

The Hill Start Assist feature in cars and SUVs utilises a combination of sensors and the car’s braking system to achieve this:

• Slope Detection: Sensors within the vehicle, such as accelerometers and wheel speed sensors, detect when the car is on an incline that exceeds a predetermined angle.  
• Brake Engagement: When the driver presses the brake pedal to a complete stop on the detected slope, the HSA/HHC system automatically engages the brakes. It essentially maintains the pressure on the brake system even after the driver lifts their foot from the pedal.  
• Hold Duration: The system holds this brake pressure for a short period, typically around 2-3 seconds, after the driver releases the brake pedal. This crucial time window allows the driver to move their foot to the accelerator.  
• Automatic Release: As the driver applies pressure to the accelerator and the engine begins to generate enough power to move the car uphill, the HSA/HHC system automatically and smoothly releases the brakes, allowing for a seamless start without any rollback.

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What Are The Pros and Cons of Hill Start Assist/Hill Hold Control

The pros or advantages of hill start assist are:

• Prevents Rollback: HSA/HHC eliminates the risk of rolling back on inclines, promoting smoother hill starts and preventing potential accidents.
• Increased Confidence: Especially for new drivers, HSA/HHC provides peace of mind and reduces the stress of starting uphill.
• Convenience: Having the system handle the brake hold allows you to focus on clutch control and acceleration.

The cons or disadvantages of hill start assist are:

• Limited to Inclines: HSA/HHC only activates on inclines exceeding a certain angle and won't work on flat surfaces.
• Potential for Reliance: Overdependence on HSA/HHC might hinder development of good hill start techniques. It's always important to practice proper clutch control.
• May Not Be Standard: While becoming increasingly common, HSA/HHC might not be available in all car models, particularly older ones.

Is It Possible To Add Hill Start Assist From The Aftermarket?

Unfortunately, adding HSA/HHC as an aftermarket accessory to a car that wasn't originally equipped with it is generally not feasible. Hill start assist is an integrated system that requires specific sensors, electronic control units (ECUs), and software that are deeply embedded within the vehicle's braking and stability control systems.

Retrofitting such a complex system would likely involve significant modifications to the car's hardware and software, making it technically challenging and cost-prohibitive.

Is Hill Start Assist Worth It?

Hill start assist (HSA) or hill hold control (HHC) is a valuable feature, especially for drivers who frequently encounter hilly terrain or those new to driving. It promotes safer hill starts, boosts driver confidence, and adds a layer of convenience. While not universally available, it's definitely a feature to consider when purchasing a new car, particularly if you anticipate driving in hilly areas.

List Of Affordable Cars In India With Hill Start Assist

The following are some affordable cars that come with hill start assist:

• Maruti Suzuki Celerio AMT
• Renault Kiger AMT
• Maruti Suzuki Swift AMT
• Maruti Suzuki Dzire AMT
• Hyundai i20 AT

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