When General Motors (GM) introduced Super Cruise, the automotive industry saw its first true hands-free driving technology. But this innovation came with another groundbreaking feature: a driver attention system. This system employs a small camera on the steering column and infrared LEDs on the steering wheel to monitor the driver’s head and eye positions when Super Cruise is active. If the driver’s attention drifts, the system initiates a series of alerts to refocus their engagement.
Recognizing the potential of this technology to enhance driving habits and improve safety, GM evolved it into Driver Attention Assist. This advanced system is now integrated into 2025 models like the Cadillac Escalade IQ and Chevrolet Tahoe. Beyond its functionality during hands-free driving, Driver Attention Assist operates even without Super Cruise engaged, monitoring critical factors to enhance road safety. Here’s how it works:
Detecting Driver Fatigue
On select international vehicles, such as those in Australia, Driver Attention Assist identifies early signs of driver drowsiness by analyzing subtle cues like yawning, blinking patterns, and blink duration in combination with driver response times to alerts.
- What happens: When signs of fatigue are detected, a coffee cup icon appears on the instrument panel, suggesting the driver take a rest break. Additional alerts include seat vibrations or auditory chimes. In severe cases of drowsiness, the system offers options on the center screen to re-engage the driver, such as calling a friend, playing music, or navigating to the nearest rest area.
Addressing Short-Duration Distractions
The system also tracks how frequently drivers look away from the road for brief moments, such as when glancing at a smartphone. Over time, it assesses the number of distractions within a 30-second window.
- What happens: If distractions are frequent, the system issues a message on the instrument panel, urging the driver to “keep eyes on road.” Alerts are reinforced with seat vibrations or chimes to recapture attention.
Managing Long-Duration Distractions
In cases where a driver’s attention remains away from the road for extended periods, the system intervenes more assertively.
- What happens: A visual message instructs the driver to “keep eyes on road,” accompanied by seat vibrations or chimes. These escalating alerts aim to ensure the driver regains focus.
Supporting Safer Roads
Driver inattention is a critical factor in road safety. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 20% of crashes are linked to conditions such as distraction, fatigue, medical events, and intoxication. GM’s Driver Attention Assist plays a vital role in reducing these risks by delivering real-time, gentle prompts to keep drivers engaged. These alerts are more than reminders; they are proactive measures to prevent accidents and enhance overall driving safety.
GM’s commitment to innovation doesn’t stop here. The company continues to explore ways to improve its driver attention systems, ensuring they can provide additional support when needed. These advancements reflect a broader mission: enabling drivers to reach their destinations safely, with technology as a steadfast partner.
