Yes, the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) heating system in certain vehicles can engage at lower temperatures when the vehicle is idling for extended periods, but this typically depends on the vehicle's specific design and how its climate control systems are integrated. Here’s how this works:

1. Integration with Vehicle Climate Control:

• In some vehicles, the ACC heating system is connected to the climate control system, and the system may automatically activate when the ambient temperature drops below a certain threshold, especially during extended idling.
• When the vehicle is idling, particularly in cold conditions, the climate control system may prioritize heating certain areas of the cabin, including the steering wheel, to maintain comfort. This can happen even when the car is not in motion, such as when waiting in traffic or during prolonged stops.

2. Ambient Temperature Trigger:

• ACC heating might be programmed to activate automatically when the outside temperature falls below a preset value, such as 50°F (10°C). This automatic activation can occur while the vehicle is idling, ensuring that the driver remains comfortable without having to manually engage the steering wheel heating.
• In cold weather, while the vehicle is idling, the system may engage the steering wheel heating even if you’re not actively using the Adaptive Cruise Control feature. The system typically reacts to environmental factors and adjusts accordingly.

3. Idle Time Consideration:

• When a vehicle is idling for extended periods, heating systems are often more active because the engine and the vehicle’s internal systems are not working at full capacity. This might make it easier for the system to engage the steering wheel heating even when you're not driving at speed.
• Some vehicles with smart climate control systems have sensors that detect when the vehicle is idling or stationary and may adjust the heat settings (including the steering wheel heating) to maintain driver comfort without overconsuming energy.

4. Energy Efficiency During Idling:

• Some vehicles are equipped with features like start-stop technology, which helps reduce engine idle time to save fuel and energy. If the system detects extended idling, it may limit certain functions (including steering wheel heating) to conserve battery life and fuel, especially if the engine is off during the idle period.
• On the other hand, more advanced climate systems can keep key heating functions, like the ACC steering wheel heating, operating in a battery-efficient mode even during idling.

5. Driver Customization:

• In some models, the heating system for the steering wheel and other components can be customized to ensure that it engages under certain conditions, such as extended idling. Drivers may be able to select auto-activation of the steering wheel heating based on time or temperature triggers when idling for comfort.

Conclusion:

Yes, the ACC heating system can indeed engage at lower temperatures when the vehicle is idling for extended periods, particularly if the vehicle's climate control system is designed to ensure consistent comfort for the driver. This typically happens automatically when external conditions are cold, and the system prioritizes heating the steering wheel, but the exact behavior depends on the vehicle's specific system settings and whether it is designed to conserve energy during extended idle times.