The next-generation system is powered by 5-nanometer, scalable compute architecture that works in concert with GM’s Ultifi software platform and its so-called vehicle intelligence platform, or VIP. In addition, Ultra Cruise uses an integrated lidar behind the windshield. Together, this means the system will be able to react to traffic lights, follow navigation routes, maintain and follow speed limits, support automatic and on-demand lane changes, make left- and right-hand turns, avoid objects and park in residential driveways. The company is relying more on its sensors than mapping however. Ultra Cruise also works through a combination of cameras, radars and lidar, developing accurate, 360-degree, three-dimensional statistical representations of the environment surrounding vehicles with redundancies in critical areas.

Ultra Cruise was designed to build on the capabilities of its Super Cruise system. Level 4 systems are what companies like GM subsidiary Cruise is working to commercialize through a robotaxi application. This means it is not a “fully autonomous” Level 4 system, a level of functionality that means the vehicle can handle all driving without the need of a human, in certain conditions. While its functionality might be more robust and it will be available on more roads, it will still require the driver to pay attention at all times. Jason Ditman, a chief engineer in GM’s automated driving group, noted several times during a briefing with reporters that Ultra Cruise is designed as a so-called Level 2 system. However, their eyes must remain directed straight ahead. Unlike Tesla’s Autopilot driver assistance system, users of Super Cruise do not need to have their hands on the wheel. Super Cruise uses a combination of lidar map data, high-precision GPS, cameras and radar sensors, as well as a driver attention system, which monitors the person behind the wheel to ensure they’re paying attention. That system, which more recently was upgraded to allow for automatic lane changes and towing support, will continue to be offered as an option by GM. And unlike the initial version of Super Cruise, this system is designed to work on city and subdivision streets and paved rural roads in addition to highways. That will eventually grow up to 3.4 million miles, the company said.

Drivers who have vehicles with Ultra Cruise will be able to access the system on more than 2 million miles of roads at launch in the United States and Canada. It will also be limited in the beginning, although far less than its predecessor system.

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