INGLEWOOD, Calif. – Operating a pickup of nearly 6,000 pounds on the 105 in Los Angeles without touching the steering wheel may seem risky, but the Chevy Silverado showcased its capability to tow a 20-foot box trailer with ease. Despite initial doubts, the Silverado’s autonomous towing performance was undeniably impressive during a recent test drive.
Super Cruise, General Motors’ advanced driver assistance system, allows the Silverado to accelerate, brake, maintain distance from the vehicle ahead, and change lanes without requiring driver interaction with the steering wheel or pedals. This system is particularly beneficial on controlled-access roadways that have been pre-mapped by GM, ranging from open snowy expanses to congested city freeways with stop-and-go traffic.
It is worth noting that Super Cruise is compatible with “all trailer-capable vehicles,” including a substantial number of body-on-frame trucks and SUVs. However, there are limitations when towing – automatic lane changes are not supported while towing beyond the gross vehicle weight rating will prevent Super Cruise from activating.
The system is able to detect trailer attachment through wired connections and parking sensors, as well as estimate weight based on engine and brake strain relative to the truck’s base gross vehicle weight. While hesitancy may arise when relinquishing control to autonomous driving, operating the Silverado with Super Cruise activated instilled a sense of confidence, serving as a safety net on the open road.
Although using Super Cruise in heavy traffic on the 105 may not be desirable, the successful demonstration of its towing capabilities in extreme scenarios highlights its reliability and efficiency. Ultimately, the integration of Super Cruise with towing functionality proves to be a valuable feature for drivers navigating challenging terrains with heavy loads.
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