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Have you heard of Cadillac Super Cruise? It’s the latest technology being implemented into the luxury automaker’s premium models. Car owners who want complete control of their vehicle without touching the steering wheel need hands-free self-driving features. Cadillac Super Cruise is one of the best, but how does it work?

What is Cadillac Super Cruise technology?

2022 Cadillac XT5 SUV - How does Cadillac Super Cruise hands-free self-driving technology work?
2022 Cadillac XT5 | Cadillac

Cadillac Super Cruise uses advanced technologies to provide hands-free driving to owners. Thanks to Lane Change on Demand, Super Cruise can even change lanes for the driver. Select Cadillac models come with even more upgrades for Super Cruise. Moreover, Automatic Lane Change and Trailering is one of the additional features.

The hands-free driving system still requires a driver to pay attention. Consequently, the automaker warns against drivers using a handled device, sleeping, or looking away from the road. Hands-free driving technology in 2022 is excellent but not perfect. Lastly, Cadillac Super Cruise requires an active Cadillac Connected Services plan or trial.

How does Cadillac’s hands-free driving work?

2022 Cadillac Escalade - How does Cadillac Super Cruise hands-free self-driving technology work?
2022 Cadillac Escalade | Cadillac

According to the automaker, the system functions with Cadillac Connected Services and uses real-time positioning, cameras, sensors, and LiDAR map data to detect the road ahead. Every curve, bump, and obstacle is scanned and anticipated by the hands-free driving system. Its purpose is to make long drives more comfortable and convenient for the driver.

To use Super Cruise, follow these steps:

  • Press the Adaptive Cruise Control button on the steering wheel. An ACC light will illuminate on the instrument cluster when it is active.
  • Once Super Cruise detects a compatible road, an attentive driver, and proper driving conditions, a white symbol will illuminate in the same place.
  • When safe to do so, press the Super Cruise button on the steering wheel, and the system will activate. Both the symbol and steering wheel light bar will light up green. Once both lights turn green and stay lit, removing your hands from the wheel is safe. However, it is best to keep your hands close in case of an emergency.
  • Press the Super Cruise button again or press the brake pedal to disengage the system.

Why doesn’t Super Cruise work in my Cadillac?

Firstly, the self-driving technology requires Cadillac Connected Services to function. It’s enabled by data collection for real-time, precise positioning and map updates. You must have an active Connected Services plan for the technology to work. Every Cadillac model equipped with Super Cruise comes with three years of connectivity, but a plan must be purchased when it ends.

Which Cadillac models come with Super Cruise?

According to the automaker, its hands-free driving system has been available on models since 2018. The 2018-2022 CT6, 2021 CT4 and CT5, 2021-2022 Escalade, and 2022 XT6 come with Super Cruise technology. Even more Cadillac models will gain the self-driving feature in the future. Most prominently in the upcoming 2023 LYRIQ, the all-electric SUV.

Hands-free driving is a selling point if you own or are interested in owning a Cadillac. It’s one of the newest pieces of technology that makes life much easier. This automaker’s hands-free driving system is one of the best available in 2022. Cadillac Super Cruise is safe, convenient, and comes with most new models. Best of all, it’s easy to use and works very well.

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Section Editor - SUVs

Tim Harding

Having spent half a decade managing the reconditioning and marketing processes for upwards of 400 vehicles monthly, Tim is no stranger to the automotive industry. He has a deep understanding of the many different types of vehicles on the road today and brings to the table valuable insight into the industry itself.

Tim earned an Associate’s in English and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a Marketing specialization from Ashford University. Tim joined MotorBiscuit as an Autos Writer in 2021, and his work can also be seen at Gamepur, Overtime Heroics, and Pro Game Guides.

Tim is most inspired by the constantly changing automotive industry. He looks forward to a future when cars, particularly electric vehicles, look and operate completely differently than they do today. Tim’s content draws on this inspiration while also providing MotorBiscuit readers with useful consumer advice.