Yes, in many vehicles equipped with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and integrated steering wheel heating, the ACC heating function can be adjusted via the steering wheel controls while the vehicle is in motion. This feature is designed for driver convenience, allowing the driver to make adjustments without taking their hands off the wheel or being distracted from driving. However, the ability to adjust the heating while driving can depend on the specific vehicle model and the system's design. Here's how it typically works:

1. Adjusting ACC Heating via Steering Wheel Buttons:

• In some vehicles, steering wheel buttons or touchpads are integrated into the wheel itself, allowing the driver to easily adjust the heating while driving. This allows for on-the-move adjustments without needing to navigate through menus on the infotainment system or dashboard.
• The buttons often provide multiple options, such as increasing or decreasing the heat level, turning the heating function on or off, or switching between preset heating modes.

2. Seamless Integration with Other Controls:

• The ACC heating function may be integrated with other comfort features in the vehicle, such as seat heating or climate control settings. Adjusting these functions through the steering wheel controls can provide a more seamless experience, ensuring that the driver has complete control over their comfort while keeping their focus on the road.

3. Customization and Settings:

• Depending on the vehicle’s user interface, there might also be customizable settings that allow the driver to fine-tune the heating function. These adjustments can include:
  • Setting a preferred temperature for the steering wheel.
  • Adjusting the intensity of the heat.
  • Selecting a dynamic heating mode, where the system adapts the temperature based on factors such as external weather or driving speed.

4. Driver Safety Considerations:

• Most vehicle systems are designed with driver safety in mind, so any adjustments made while the car is in motion are typically simple and intuitive. The system ensures that the controls are easy to operate without diverting attention from driving. For example, the heat settings may be simple buttons or a slider, reducing complexity and minimizing distraction.

5. Limitations and Vehicle Variations:

• In some cases, certain vehicles might limit the ability to adjust the heating while driving as part of safety protocols. For instance, the system may only allow adjustments when the vehicle is at a standstill or might require specific actions to enable the function (such as activating a comfort mode or entering a settings menu).
• The exact functionality of steering wheel heating and its integration with ACC varies by vehicle make and model, as some manufacturers might prioritize ease of use, while others may place limitations to ensure that the driver is not overly distracted.

Conclusion:

In many modern vehicles, ACC heating can indeed be adjusted via steering wheel controls while the vehicle is moving. This design enhances driver convenience and comfort, especially in cold weather, by allowing the driver to make quick adjustments without taking their hands off the wheel or navigating complex menus. However, the availability and level of control may depend on the specific vehicle's design and the way the system has been implemented.