GM Super Cruise Tops Tesla Autopilot in Semi Autonomous Test

When it comes to semi-autonomous driving, Cadillac is tops. That’s according to a new test from Consumer Reports.

It’s the first time that the organization has tested partially automated driving systems. So why did Cadillac’s Super Cruise get the top spot? CR said that “it does the best job of balancing high-tech capabilities with ensuring that the car is operated safely and that the driver is paying attention.”

The test was of four different semi-autonomous systems. They monitored how well the technology worked, how easy it was to use, and, more importantly, how well it monitored driver engagement and how well it reacts to a non-responsive driver.

“Stacked up against each other, you can really see significant differences. The best systems balance capability with safeguards—making driving easier and less stressful in the right situations. Without proper safeguards, overreliance on the system is too easy, which puts drivers at risk,” said CR’s auto test director Jake Fisher.

Super Cruise uses a camera to watch the driver’s eyes. If you aren’t paying attention, it will give you a series of warnings then start to slow down. CR found it to be the best at letting the driver know where it can and can’t be used. It also tells the driver why if it can’t be engaged. It’s the only system that gives ample warning of merges, ramps, and difficult traffic. Situations the system may not be able to handle. Tesla’s Autopilot allows engagement on roads where it isn’t able to operate normally, causing erratic function, CR said.

With Super Cruise ranked first, Tesla’s Autopilot was second, one step down in the rankings. Nissan’s ProPilot Assist was a step below that with Volvo’s Pilot Assist bringing up the rear.

[Source: Consumer Reports] A version of this story originally appeared on GM Inside News.