General Motors has been one of the leading automakers when it comes to semi-autonomous driving technology since it introduced a game-changing system known as Super Cruise a few years back. This advanced driver-assistance feature is designed to enhance the driving experience by providing hands-free driving on compatible roads including on your way to work in Mississauga. This article delves into the workings of Super Cruise, explores its industry-exclusive trailering capability, and provides an overview of the Chevrolet and GMC models that offer Super Cruise.
Overview of the System
Super Cruise is GM's semi-autonomous driving system that allows for hands-free operation on specific highways. The system combines various technologies to provide a safe and reliable driving experience. Here’s how it operates:
1. High-Precision GPS: Super Cruise relies on high-precision GPS, which offers better accuracy compared to conventional GPS systems. This technology ensures that the vehicle stays precisely within its lane.
2. LiDAR Map Data: GM has mapped over 600,000 kilometers of highways in North America using LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology. This detailed mapping data is critical for the system's operation, providing a three-dimensional view of the road ahead.
3. Driver Attention System: A key component of Super Cruise is the driver attention system, which uses a small camera located on the steering column. This camera tracks the driver’s head position to ensure they are paying attention to the road. If the system detects that the driver is not attentive, it will prompt them to take control of the vehicle.
4. Adaptive Cruise Control: Super Cruise integrates adaptive cruise control to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. This feature automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to match traffic conditions.
5. Lane Centering: Using a combination of cameras, sensors, and LiDAR map data, Super Cruise ensures the vehicle remains centered in its lane, even on curves and hills.
6. Connectivity: The system is connected to GM’s OnStar services, which can provide additional support and updates to the Super Cruise system.
Additional Features on Pickups
When it comes to GM’s pickups, Super Cruise includes additional features that enhance the utility and convenience of these vehicles, particularly in towing scenarios.
Towing with Super Cruise
Towing is a critical function for many pickup owners, and GM has integrated several features into Super Cruise to facilitate this:
1. Trailering Capability: Super Cruise is capable of hands-free driving even when towing a trailer. The system accounts for the extra length and weight, adjusting its operation to ensure stability and safety.
2. Trailer Sway Control: This feature detects trailer sway and automatically applies the brakes to individual wheels to help bring the trailer back under control. Super Cruise enhances this by maintaining a steady course and speed, reducing the likelihood of sway occurring in the first place.
How to Activate Super Cruise
Activating Super Cruise is a straightforward process that can be done in three simple steps:
1. Enable Super Cruise: When the white Super Cruise icon appears on the instrument cluster, press the Super Cruise activator button located on the steering wheel.
2. Ready to Go Hands-Free: Once the Super Cruise symbol and steering wheel indicator turn green, the system is ready for hands-free driving.
3. Hands Off: Let go of the steering wheel and enjoy the benefits of Super Cruise, the largest hands-free driving network in North America.
While enabled, Super Cruise works seamlessly with Adaptive Cruise Control to manage acceleration and braking, and with OnStar to ensure that your vehicle receives the latest updates. It uses real-time precise positioning, cameras, sensors, and LiDAR map data to help detect every curve, making long drives more comfortable and convenient so you can arrive at your destination refreshed.
Models Equipped with Super Cruise
Super Cruise is available on a range of GM vehicles, spanning across several Chevy and GMC models. Here are the key models equipped with Super Cruise:
2024 Chevrolet Models with Super Cruise
1. 2024 Chevy Blazer EV: The all-electric SUV that combines modern design with advanced technology, including Super Cruise for a seamless driving experience.
2. 2024 Chevy Silverado: This popular pickup truck is equipped with Super Cruise, enhancing its towing capabilities and providing long-distance driving comfort.
3. 2024 Chevy Traverse: A family-friendly SUV that now features Super Cruise, making road trips safer and more enjoyable.
4. 2024 Chevy Tahoe: This full-size SUV benefits from Super Cruise’s advanced features for long highway drives, offering a blend of luxury and capability.
5. 2024 Chevy Suburban: Known for its spaciousness and power, the Suburban now includes Super Cruise to enhance its driving experience.
6. 2024 Chevy Bolt EUV: This electric utility vehicle integrates Super Cruise, providing an innovative and eco-friendly driving option.
GMC Models Equipped with Super Cruise
1. GMC Sierra 1500 Denali and Denali Ultimate: These high-end versions of the Sierra pickup truck are equipped with Super Cruise, offering a luxurious and technologically advanced driving experience.
2. Upcoming GMC Acadia: The next iteration of the Acadia will include Super Cruise, showcasing GMC’s commitment to integrating advanced driver-assistance features across its lineup.
3. GMC Hummer EV: This electric truck, known for its power and off-road capabilities, also features Super Cruise, bringing hands-free driving to rugged terrains.
4. Select GMC Yukon Models: Certain models of the Yukon will be equipped with Super Cruise, enhancing this full-size SUV’s appeal for long-distance travel and family adventures.
GM’s Super Cruise represents a significant advancement in the field of driver-assistance systems. By combining high-precision GPS, LiDAR mapping, and a robust driver attention system, it offers a reliable and safe hands-free driving experience. The system’s additional features on pickups, especially for towing, highlight its versatility and utility. As GM continues to expand the availability of Super Cruise across more models, it is poised to become a defining feature in the evolution of autonomous driving technology.
