Autonomous intelligent cruise control design is a very important aspec
t of automation systems in future traffic patterns. A strategy for aut
omated vehicle tracking is described, which keeps a velocity-dependent
distance between the vehicles in order to provide a constant time-hea
dway. As it is based on the principle of feedback linearization, highl
y structured and organized algorithms can be provided, without using s
pecial preferred operating points. Essential nonlinearities ave compen
sated for in a direct way, and an arbitrary linear behaviour can be im
posed on the remaining system. In order to provide a fast transient be
haviour and insensitivity to disturbances, the control laws include, b
esides a proportional part, derivative as well as integral terms. Furt
hermore, the system is prevented from having an overshoot, and comfort
parameters can be adjusted. Owing to its high performance, this contr
ol system directly contributes to the enhancement of traffic safety.