California Halts GM’s Self-Driving Cars Over Safety Fears
In a major blow to General Motors, California has slammed the brakes on Cruise’s self-driving car tests. The state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) suspended Cruise’s permits after a string of accidents sparked serious safety concerns.
California DMV Pulls Plug on Cruise Tests
The DMV made its move official on Tuesday, warning that “when there is an unreasonable risk to public safety,” permits can be instantly revoked. This latest clampdown puts GM’s ambitious autonomous vehicle plans in jeopardy.
Self-driving cars have divided public opinion. Some hail the tech as revolutionary. Others see it as a hazard clogging the streets.
Accidents Trigger Cruise Shutdown in San Francisco
The suspension follows several mishaps involving Cruise vehicles in the city. GM responded by pausing all Cruise operations in San Francisco, casting doubt on the widespread rollout of self-driving tech.
Despite heavy investment from automakers like GM, regulators and the public remain wary. Cruise, once touted as GM’s “giant growth opportunity,” reported a staggering $720 million loss in Q3 alone.
Yet GM chief Mary Barra remains bullish, forecasting Cruise could rake in a colossal $50 billion annually by 2030.
Chilling Hit-and-Run Spurs Safety Crackdown
The suspension comes days after a chilling incident on October 2. A woman in San Francisco was hit by a hit-and-run driver, then trapped under a Cruise autonomous car. The company claims its vehicle “braked aggressively” to reduce impact, but paramedics had to rush to free her.
This ordeal has only intensified scrutiny on GM’s self-driving fleet and raised urgent questions about their road safety.
