Hill Descent Control (HDC)
Activating the HDC System
The HDC system can be activated when the vehicle's speed is below 80 km/h (50 mph). It is compatible with Drive (D), Reverse (R), and manual gear selection modes (CommandShift™) in both high and low range gearboxes. In Drive (D) mode, the system automatically selects the most appropriate gear. Note that HDC may be automatically engaged by certain Terrain Response system programs.
To activate HDC, press and release the HDC on/off button (1). If the HDC indicator light flashes, it means the system is active but not currently controlling speed, likely due to conditions like excessive speed.
If HDC deactivates during operation, the indicator will flash during a gradual speed reduction, allowing the vehicle to accelerate smoothly. If the vehicle speed exceeds 80 km/h (50 mph), HDC will disengage, and the indicator light will turn off. HDC also automatically deactivates if the ignition is switched off for more than six hours.
Controls for Speed Adjustment:
- Press and hold the '+' button (2) to increase the set speed.
- Press and hold the '-' button (3) to decrease the set speed.
- Releasing the button will maintain the selected speed.
- Pressing '+' or '-' briefly will adjust the speed in increments of 0.5 km/h (0.3 mph).
The accelerator pedal can also be used to increase speed up to the maximum limit for the selected gear. Each gear has a minimum speed setting.
Note: On gentle slopes, pressing the '+' button may not increase speed. If the brake pedal is pressed, HDC disengages and the brakes operate normally. HDC resumes control once the brake pedal is released. If HDC is deactivated by braking, the system will gradually reduce its effect to prevent sudden loss of control.
Hill Gradient Control (GRC)
When HDC is active and the vehicle is stopped on a gradient using the brake pedal, GRC engages (unless the 'Sand' program in Terrain Response is active). When the brake pedal is released on an uphill gradient, GRC automatically holds the brakes to allow for a smooth start. On a downhill gradient, GRC provides a similar controlled release of the brakes for smooth HDC engagement. GRC operates automatically for forward and reverse starts without driver intervention.
Driving Uphill on Steep Gradients
When driving uphill on a steep gradient with HDC engaged, the driver has full control in normal mode. If HDC is deactivated, the vehicle's maximum speed is limited for more precise control during ascents.
Warning Messages
? Do not attempt to descend steep gradients if HDC is not functioning or if warning messages are displayed.
Brake Temperature
In demanding conditions, HDC may cause brake temperatures to exceed limits. In such cases, the information display will show 'HDC TEMPORARILY UNAVAILABLE'. HDC's effect will gradually reduce, and the system will become temporarily inactive. Once the brakes cool down, the message will disappear (or the indicator light will extinguish), and HDC will resume operation if needed.
System Malfunction
If a system malfunction is detected, the message 'HDC UNAVAILABLE SYSTEM FAULT' will appear on the information panel. If this occurs while HDC is active, its effect on speed will gradually reduce. If a malfunction is detected, contact a Land Rover dealer or service center as soon as possible.