These days, a number of automakers including Audi, Volkswagen and BMW are testing various semi-autonomous driving technologies. In fact, even internet giant Google has given it a shot, so it should not come to a surprise that GM’s flagship brand Cadillac is also heavily investing in this field.
Cadillac’s semi-autonomous technology is named “Super Cruise” and it is capable of fully automatic steering, braking and lane-centering in highway driving under certain optimal conditions. The automaker said that the system could be ready for production vehicles by 2015.
“Super Cruise has the potential to improve driver performance and enjoyment,” says Don Butler, vice president of Cadillac marketing. “Our goal with advanced technologies, like this and our CUE system, is to lead in delivering an intuitive user experience.”
The company says the Super Cruise system, which relies on information sourced from a mix of radar, ultrasonic sensors, cameras and GPS map data, is designed to make the driver’s life easier on the freeway as well as in traffic.
Many of the Super Cruise’s core technologies are readily available on Cadillac’s production models such as the 2013 ATS and XTS sedans, as part of the optional Driver Assist Package.
Among other features included in the package is rear automatic braking, forward collision alert, full-speed range adaptive cruise control, safety alert seat, lane departure warning, rear cross traffic alert and rear vision camera with dynamic guidelines.
GM recognizes though that even when semi-autonomous driving capability becomes available, there will be operational limitations as the system relies on external factors such as weather and visibility of lane markings. For example, when there’s fog, the driver will have to take the steering wheel.
“The primary goal of GM’s autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicle development is safety,” said John Capp, GM director of Global Active Safety Electronics and Innovation.
“In the coming years, autonomous driving systems paired with advanced safety systems could help eliminate the crash altogether by interceding on behalf of drivers before they’re even aware of a hazardous situation. More than ever, consumers will be able to trust their car to do the right thing,” he added.
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