MY NEW car is equipped with cruise control. I read somewhere that using this function improves fuel economy. How is it so?

IN TERMS of fuel economy, cruise control is excellent for long stretches of road where traffic is relatively light.

It helps drivers maintain a constant speed and this, in turn, enhances fuel economy.

However, it is unlikely to benefit drivers who drive frequently on congested roads and who encounter stop-and-go traffic often.

Having said that, the newer adaptive cruise control systems available in some Mercedes and Volvo models are able to 'cruise' in stop-start traffic.

Drivers who are naturally heavy-footed and impatient should see some improvement in fuel economy when using such cars. But those who have more 'eco-friendly' driving habits may not.