Driving hands-free with Enhanced Super Cruise in the 2021 Cadillac Escalade

By Juan Garcia February 9, 2021

In 2017, Cadillac went from being just a luxury car brand to setting an industry technology benchmark with Super Cruise, a hands-free driving system to rival Tesla’s Autopilot. Now, the company has set that bar even higher with the release of Enhanced Super Cruise, a new version that allows automated lane changes and easier operation. We had a chance to try it out in the all-new 2021 Escalade.

Super Cruise offers a simple yet powerful interface that controls both the acceleration and the braking of the vehicle on compatible roads in the United States and Canada. Cadillac mapped these roads in advance using lidar (it’s like radar, with light) to detect their curves, intersections, and exits in minute detail. To operate with greater precision, the system also uses real-time location, cameras, and other sensors.

Activating Super Cruise is simple: Just press the Adaptive Cruise Control button located on the steering wheel. When you drive on a compatible road and the driving conditions are optimal (visible lane markings, GPS available, and up-to-date signs), the Super Cruise symbol will light up.

Ready to start driving with no hands? Press the Super Cruise button located on the steering wheel and a green light on it will inform you that you can now remove your hands to place them on your legs, for instance, or by your sides.

The system also works to change lanes; you just have to activate the turn signal and Super Cruise will look for a suitable opening in the next lane, in addition to alerting other vehicles of the movement that the car is about to make.

To turn Super Cruise off, press the button again, or press the brake pedal.

Autonomous driving systems are here, and Cadillac’s Super Cruise is proof of that. Enhanced Super Cruise will make its first appearance in the 2021 Cadillac CT5, CT4, and all-new 2021 Cadillac Escalade.

This piece was produced in collaboration with our Spanish-language partners at Digital Trends Español.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Cars

Best dash cam deals: Protect your ride from just $39

Rexing V1 dash cam

There are a lot of difficult drivers on the road, and a great way to protect yourself from potential insurance issues is with a dash cam. A dash cam will ensure everything that goes on while you’re driving is recorded. The best dash cams can typically record in multiple directions, making them a great option for Uber drivers who want to keep their customers safe and protect themselves from potential legal issues as well. You can save big on a new dash cam right now, as there are quite a few dash cam deals worth shopping. Below you’ll find what we feel are the best dash cam deals to choose from right now, so read onward for more details on how to save.
70mai Smart Dash Cam 1S -- $40, was $50

The 70mai Smart Dash Cam 1S is the cheapest option in this list, but it doesn't feel like it because it's packed with features. The dash cam, which supports microSD memory cards of up to 64GB, records footage at 1080p Full HD resolution with night vision capabilities thanks to its Sony IMX307 image processor and f/2.2 aperture. With its built-in G sensor, the dash cam will detect an accident and lock footage to prevent overwrites. You can use voice commands to ask the dash cam to take photos or to start recording videos, and you can use its accompanying app to watch real-time footage and to download files to your phone.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs Hyundai Ioniq 5: Should you wait for the Rivian R2?

Rivian R2

Rivian has taken the wraps off of the Rivian R2, an electric SUV that's similar to the much-loved R1S, but smaller and, crucially, cheaper. But the R2 goes up against some serious competition. The likes of Hyundai have been building solid EVs for some time now -- including the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

The R2 and the Ioniq 5 each make a compelling case for themselves, and they're likely to end up being similarly priced if the Ioniq 5 doesn't get much cheaper and the R2 does end up being sold at $45,000. To be fair, the cars are pretty different -- the R2 is more of an SUV, while the Ioniq 5 is much more crossover-sized. But because of their similar price, you might be deciding between the two. How do they compare? We put the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 head-to-head.
Design
The differences between the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 are perhaps no more apparent than when it comes to design.

Cars

The 6 best remote car starters in 2024

Best car remote starters

While some modern vehicles come standard with remote start features, it's still relatively uncommon. That's a shame because if you live somewhere where cold weather, snow, and ice are frequent concerns, a remote car starter is one of the best auto accessories you can have. If you're not familiar with them, a remote car starter works similarly to a key fob, except it will actually start your car from a distance instead of just unlocking the doors or trunk. That means you can start your car from the warm comfort of your home or office before venturing out. If you live somewhere hot, you can even start your car and let the AC run for a little bit. You'll never enter a freezing cold or scorching hot vehicle again.

The best remote car starters have long ranges, replaceable batteries, and other handy features — but how do you know which is best for you? We’ve compiled a list of the best car starters in a range of prices and features. Keep in mind that while you can install some yourself, some will require a professional.
The best remote car starters in 2024