FYI: General Motors has shifted its approach to self-driving cars, opting to utilize the next-generation Bolt EV for its robotaxi fleet instead of the originally planned Origin Shuttle.
GM’s Self-Driving Fleet Plans Take a New Direction
Cruise, General Motors Co.’s well-known self-driving technology subsidiary, has decided to abandon its original strategy of using the innovative Origin Shuttle in its robotaxi operations, according to a recent report by Reuters. The company will now focus on deploying a production version of the next-generation Chevrolet Bolt EV, scheduled for release in 2025. This pivot indicates that GM is putting its ambitions for a vehicle devoid of a steering wheel and pedals on hold, at least for now.
Strategic Shift to the Bolt EV
General Motors announced that this move aims to curtail expenditure and sidestep the regulatory hurdles associated with getting the Origin Shuttle approved for public roads. The Origin was set to feature GM’s Ultium EV platform and cutting-edge battery technology. Some prototype models had already made appearances in public testing scenarios throughout 2022.
In a statement to Reuters, GM emphasized that opting for a conventional model like the Bolt EV, albeit with a steering wheel and pedals, would be more cost-effective and straightforward in terms of regulatory compliance. The company had applied to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for permission to roll out 2,500 Origin vehicles in 2022, but the regulatory body has yet to respond to this request.
From Visionary to Pragmatic
Initially unveiled to the public with a futuristic design aimed at eliminating the need for a steering wheel and pedals, the Origin’s journey has been indefinitely paused. As GM navigates the complexities of regulatory approval and cost management, it remains uncertain whether the Origin will ever be integrated into their lineup.
The current iteration of the Bolt EV is actively used for developmental purposes and continues to be the cornerstone of Cruise’s robotaxi fleet. GM had teased a steering wheel- and pedal-less version of this vehicle as early as 2018, showcasing their long-term vision for autonomous transportation.
Challenges and Controversies
Cruise has established itself as a strong contender in the automated taxi sector, with operational services across multiple cities. However, the company faced significant backlash following a robotaxi mishap in San Francisco in October. The incident resulted in an unplanned halt of services nationwide, although operations have slowly resumed in cities like Phoenix and Dallas, now with safety drivers on board.
The controversy stemmed from an accident where a Cruise robotaxi, attempting to brake and avoid a pedestrian thrust into its path by another vehicle, inadvertently dragged the pedestrian while trying to maneuver to the side of the road. This incident has placed Cruise under intense scrutiny and highlighted the challenges of deploying self-driving technologies in real-world scenarios.
Conclusion
General Motors’ shift in strategy reflects the evolving landscape of autonomous vehicle development. By transitioning to a more conventional model, GM aims to streamline costs and navigate regulatory landscapes more efficiently. The decision underscores the company’s commitment to innovation while also grounding it in pragmatic steps for broader deployment.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
