GM Accelerates Autonomous Drive: 200 Vehicles Hit Michigan and California Highways for Advanced Testing

General Motors has officially commenced highway testing of its advanced self-driving technology, deploying 200 vehicles across Michigan and California. This significant step is part of GM’s ambitious plan to introduce "eyes-off" driving capabilities by 2028, aiming to redefine the future of personal vehicle autonomy.

Key Takeaways

• GM is actively testing its next-generation autonomous driving system with 200 vehicles on public highways in Michigan and California.
• The company aims to launch "eyes-off" driving capability in 2028, initially on the all-electric Cadillac Escalade IQ.
• This initiative builds upon GM’s existing Super Cruise system, enhancing hands-free driving features.
• Extensive real-world data collection from 34 states over six months is crucial for refining the system’s performance.

Advancing Towards "Eyes-Off" Driving

GM’s latest testing phase involves 200 vehicles equipped with trained safety drivers who are ready to intervene if necessary. The data gathered from these vehicles, operating across 34 states over the past six months, is instrumental in refining the system’s perception, planning, and overall performance. This extensive real-world data collection is a critical component in ensuring the safety and reliability of the technology.

The automaker has set a target of 2028 for the debut of its "eyes-off" driving capability. This advanced system is slated to be first integrated into the premium, all-electric Cadillac Escalade IQ. The goal is to allow drivers to safely disengage from monitoring the road under specific conditions, marking a significant leap forward in autonomous driving for personal use.

Building on Super Cruise

The new technology represents an evolution of GM’s current Super Cruise system. Super Cruise already offers hands-free driving, automatic lane changes, and adaptive cruise control that adjusts speed based on surrounding traffic. The upcoming "eyes-off" system aims to provide an even higher level of autonomy, allowing for extended periods where driver attention is not required on the road.

Strategic Shift in Autonomous Development

This intensified focus on highway testing for personal vehicles follows GM’s strategic decision to exit the robotaxi business in late 2024. The company previously shut down its Cruise unit after a notable incident involving a pedestrian in San Francisco. The current testing program signifies a renewed commitment to developing and deploying autonomous technology for consumer vehicles, emphasizing safety and rigorous real-world validation.

Sources

• GM begins highway testing of self-driving technology in Michigan, California, CBT News.