GM to Launch Eyes-Off Driving and Advanced AI Vehicle Features by 2028
General Motors (GM) has announced ambitious plans to introduce groundbreaking in-vehicle technologies by 2028, including an eyes-off driving system and conversational artificial intelligence (AI). These innovations are aimed at transforming the driving experience with enhanced safety, convenience, and seamless software integration.
At a press event held in Manhattan on October 22, 2025, GM CEO Mary Barra, along with other company leaders, presented their vision for the next generation of intelligent vehicles under the banner “GM Forward.” The centerpiece of this initiative is the introduction of the Cadillac Escalade IQ electric SUV, poised to be the first model equipped with GM’s most advanced driver assistance system featuring eyes-off driving capability.
Eyes-Off Driving System
The new eyes-off driving feature will allow drivers to take their eyes away from the road while the vehicle safely manages driving tasks, initially on highways. A distinctive turquoise lighting system across the dashboard and exterior mirrors will activate as a visual indicator when the technology is engaged, signaling to drivers that it is safe to divert their attention, such as reading or catching up on messages. This capability represents a major leap beyond traditional hands-free or eyes-on driver assist systems and aims to enhance safety by reducing distractions and driver fatigue.
Conversational AI and Software Advances
In addition to driver assistance, GM is launching conversational AI technology starting next year, aiming to build vehicles that not only move occupants but also understand and adapt to their needs in real time. The conversational AI will provide enhanced interaction between driver and vehicle, facilitating a more personalized and intuitive driving environment.
To underpin these features, GM is developing a unified software framework that will integrate all major vehicle systems—including propulsion, steering, infotainment, and safety—into a single high-speed computing core. This platform is set to be standard in both electric and gasoline vehicles, dramatically improving processing power with 10 times greater capacity for over-the-air updates, 1000 times the bandwidth, and up to 35 times better AI performance.
The inaugural model to showcase this software architecture, the 2026 Cadillac Escalade IQ, will start at a base price of $127,405. With this system, GM plans to enable extensive software sharing across its entire vehicle lineup, ensuring ongoing updates and feature enhancements keep vehicles current throughout their lifecycle.
Industry Impact and Future Outlook
GM’s investment in AI and software innovation is a response to rapid advancements in automotive technology and increasing competition from tech-savvy Silicon Valley players. The company also announced plans to utilize robots in manufacturing later this year, reflecting a broader digital transformation.
Experts view GM’s eyes-off driving announcement as a significant milestone toward fully autonomous driving. While currently limited to highways, this technology could pave the way for safer and more efficient long-distance travel, reducing driver workload and potentially decreasing accident rates.
By 2028, GM aims to have these technologies broadly deployed, signaling a future where vehicles do more than transport—they actively assist, inform, and interact with their drivers, promising a new era of smarter, safer, and more connected driving experiences.
Reported by Jackie Charniga