GM Expands Super Cruise Hands-Free to Rural Routes and Minor Highways

General Motors (GM) announced a significant expansion of its Super Cruise technology, enabling hands-free driving on minor highways and rural routes across the United States and Canada. This development marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of autonomous driving technology, as GM endeavors to make driving safer and more convenient for its customers.

With this expansion, Super Cruise, previously limited to interstates and major routes, now covers approximately 750,000 miles of road. The addition of minor highways means that drivers can now enjoy the benefits of hands-free driving in smaller towns and rural areas, where traditional navigation systems may not provide adequate support.

Anantha Kancherla, Vice President of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems at GM, emphasized the company's commitment to safety and innovation, stating, "GM is all-in on safely deploying Super Cruise as we make the technology available on more vehicles, more roads, and for more people to enjoy." He further highlighted the importance of lidar mapping in enhancing the capabilities of Super Cruise, providing a level of precision that instills confidence in its performance.

Since its introduction in 2017, Super Cruise has undergone several updates, including automatic lane changing, improved navigation features, and hands-free trailering support. The integration of these advancements demonstrates GM's dedication to refining and enhancing the user experience.

Notably, the expansion of Super Cruise will be delivered over-the-air at no additional cost until 2025, ensuring that customers have access to the latest technology without the need for dealership visits or manual updates. However, some vehicles, such as the Cadillac CT6 and XT6, as well as the electric Chevrolet Bolt EUV, will not receive these updates due to their reliance on older software platforms.

Looking ahead, GM is poised to introduce Ultra Cruise, a hands-free city driving-capable system, in 2024 with the launch of the Cadillac Celestiq ultraluxury electric sedan. While this system represents a significant advancement, GM remains committed to the Super Cruise brand, consolidating its advanced driver assistance programs under one recognizable name.

In conclusion, GM's expansion of Super Cruise to rural routes and minor highways reflects a broader industry shift towards autonomous driving technologies. By leveraging lidar mapping and continuous innovation, GM aims to redefine the driving experience, making it safer, more efficient, and ultimately more enjoyable for drivers across diverse environments.