What Is Super Cruise?
Super Cruise technology is found in nearly two dozen vehicles from General Motors. It’s a suite of driving assistance technologies that allows drivers to take their hands off the wheel while the car is in motion. The system debuted in the 2018 Cadillac CT6, a luxury sedan with a higher price tag. As driver-assistance technologies became more widespread and affordable, Super Cruise expanded to numerous GM models.
Key Features of Super Cruise
- Built on adaptive cruise control technology for hands-free driving
- Works only on highways mapped in the system’s database
- Requires a monthly subscription after the first three years
How Does Super Cruise Work?
Super Cruise is based on adaptive cruise control (ACC), which allows drivers to set their speed and follow distance. The system uses various sensors, including LiDAR, GPS data, cameras, and maps to enable hands-free driving. However, it has some restrictions. The sensors and cameras must detect lane markers, so faded paint or low-visibility weather conditions can prevent activation.
GM emphasizes that Super Cruise is not autonomous driving and that the human driver must be able to take over at any time. The system uses driver-attention monitoring technology to ensure the driver’s eyes are open and they’re ready to take control. If the driver becomes incapacitated, Super Cruise will safely slow the car to a stop and call OnStar for assistance.
Using Super Cruise
To activate Super Cruise, drivers first turn on adaptive cruise control. If safety conditions are met, the Super Cruise symbol lights up in the driver display. Pressing the Super Cruise button on the steering wheel fully engages the system, and a green light bar on the steering wheel indicates it’s in control. The system can perform various highway driving tasks, such as changing lanes, merging, and slowing down or stopping in traffic.
Cost and Availability
Buying a vehicle with Super Cruise typically means adding an optional technology or safety package, which can cost between $2,000 to $10,000 extra, depending on the vehicle and trim. The connectivity required for Super Cruise is free for the first three years, after which owners must pay $20 to $40 per month to maintain the service.
Vehicles with Super Cruise
Super Cruise is available in numerous GM vehicles, including models from Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC. Some of the specific models include the Buick Enclave, Cadillac CT4, Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Silverado, Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Acadia, and GMC Sierra.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What level of driving is Super Cruise? Super Cruise uses Level 2 automation, which involves hands-off driving but requires keeping eyes on the road and being ready to take control.
- Is Super Cruise worth it? It depends on driving habits. If you frequently drive on busy highways, Super Cruise could reduce driver fatigue. However, if you mostly drive on surface streets or country roads, it might not be worth the extra cost and subscription fee.
