General Motors (GM) is making significant strides in the world of automated driving with its 'Super Cruise' system. The company announced that it is expanding the range of roadways where drivers can utilize this partially automated driving system, adding approximately 350,000 miles (563,000 kilometers) of road in the United States and Canada.
This expansion effectively doubles the road miles where the Super Cruise system can be employed. It includes both limited-access divided highways as well as some two-lane roads that connect cities to smaller towns and smaller towns to each other, according to GM.
One of the key highlights of the Super Cruise system is its ability to navigate roads with intersections and crossing traffic, which has proven to be a challenge for competing systems like Tesla's Autopilot. While the Super Cruise system allows drivers to take their hands off the steering wheel, it is important to note that the vehicles cannot autonomously drive themselves. Drivers must still be prepared to intervene at all times.
In contrast to Tesla's Autopilot, which has faced criticism for struggling to detect and stop for crossing tractor-trailers, GM's Super Cruise system has demonstrated significant improvements in handling such scenarios. GM explained that, in the case of crossing traffic, the system can either brake hard, change lanes if there is an available option, or alert the driver to take control, depending on the specific circumstances. The Super Cruise system combines radar and camera sensors to identify obstacles on the road.
Consumer Reports' auto test center praised the Super Cruise system for featuring one of the best driver-monitoring systems in the industry. This includes an infrared camera that ensures drivers are paying attention to the road. In comparison, Tesla relies primarily on detecting torque from hands on the steering wheel to monitor driver attention. Critics argue that this method may not be sufficient to ensure drivers remain alert. Furthermore, some Tesla vehicles have driver-facing cameras, but tests have shown that Autopilot can still function even if the cameras are covered.
While the expansion of Super Cruise to two-lane roads may seem like a significant advancement, some experts express concerns about the potential risks. Kelly Funkhouser, associate director of vehicle technology at Consumer Reports' auto test center, cautioned that allowing drivers to take their hands off the wheel on two-lane roads could lead to delayed reaction times. The absence of a mechanism to ensure drivers' readiness, such as having both hands free, might be problematic. Additionally, drivers need to exercise extra caution on two-lane roads due to the higher risks associated with turning, crossing, or merging vehicles.
Prior to this expansion, Super Cruise was compatible with approximately 400,000 miles (644,000 kilometers) of roads, primarily interstate highways and major roads connecting larger cities. The additional road coverage will be gradually rolled out through online software updates at no additional cost, with the process expected to continue throughout the next year.
GM's Super Cruise system aims to provide drivers with enhanced convenience and safety during their journeys. As the technology evolves, it is crucial to strike a balance between automation and driver accountability to ensure a safe driving experience for all.
