General Motors has announced plans to introduce fully autonomous 'eyes-off' driving technology in its Cadillac Escalade IQ by 2028. The system will allow drivers to read, text, or watch videos while the vehicle handles steering, braking, and acceleration on highways, marking a significant leap from its current Super Cruise system, which requires constant driver attention.
GM CEO Mary Barra showcased the technology at an event in Manhattan, describing a future where cars can drive themselves to work, run errands, and even take themselves for maintenance. The system combines LiDAR scanners, radars, and cameras, diverging from Tesla's vision-only approach, which GM claims is less reliable in adverse weather or when sensors are obscured.
The new system builds on GM's Super Cruise, which has logged over 700 million hands-free miles without a crash attributed to the technology, and integrates software from its Cruise autonomous vehicle subsidiary. Cruise had previously suspended operations after safety incidents in California.
GM also plans to launch a conversational AI system powered by Google Gemini next year, capable of loading entertainment for long trips. The self-driving technology will debut in the electric Escalade IQ, with a new computing platform expected in 2028 that reduces parts and costs, potentially easing pressure on buyers facing average new car prices near $50,000.
The announcement comes amid industry challenges, including tariffs and supply chain issues. GM estimated a $3.5 billion profit hit from import fees in its recent earnings call, but Barra stressed the company's commitment to innovation. The new system will alert drivers with turquoise lighting when it is safe to take hands and eyes off the wheel.
