Key facts
- GM plans to offer "eyes-off" autonomous driving on its highest-selling, most profitable vehicles.
- The automaker is developing a new software backbone for future vehicles to deliver the automated-driving system and other digital features.
- GM's digital revenue is estimated to increase to $9.6 billion by 2036, from $3.2 billion this year, according to UBS.
General Motors plans to offer "eyes-off" autonomous driving on its large pickup trucks and SUVs, expanding the capability beyond its previously announced plans for the Cadillac Escalade IQ. The automaker is developing a new in-house software backbone, referred to internally as a "central computer" or "vehicle brain," to enable remote updates and other digital features, aiming to compete with EV-only brands like Tesla and Chinese automakers. This strategy is crucial for traditional automakers to avoid falling further behind competitors in software development. Sterling Anderson, GM's chief product officer, stated the system aims to "give you your time back" and will eventually expand to other roads. The company believes drivers will pay for these advanced features, which can command higher profit margins than traditional vehicle sales.