Speaking of autonomous vehicles, GM is aiming for 2017 to have leading-edge semi-autonomous function. From Jerry Hirsch at the Los Angeles Times:

“GM is to offer what it is calling ‘Super Cruise’ in a new Cadillac model that [GM’s chief executive Mary] Barra didn’t name.

The system will allow drivers to switch the vehicle into a semi-automated mode in which it will automatically keep the car in its lane, making necessary steering adjustments, and autonomously trigger braking and speed control to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.

‘With Super Cruise, when there’s a congestion alert on roads like California’s Santa Monica Freeway, you can let the car take over and drive hands-free and feet-free through the worst stop-and-go traffic around,’ Barra said. ‘And if the mood strikes you on the high-speed road from Barstow, California to Las Vegas, you can take a break from the wheel and pedals and let the car do the work.'”