Revised Chevy SUV Adds Lidar Mapping, Cameras, Radar

Chevrolet has unveiled a significantly updated version of its Traverse SUV and confirmed it will feature hands-free technology for the first time.

The model has been redesigned from the ground up to showcase a bold new look with more truck-like proportions in a bid to see it reverse a sales slide in the United States, which saw it dip under 100,000 in 2022 for the first time since 2013.

The restyle is complemented by the availability of a host of new features, including General Motors’ Super Cruise technology.

Super Cruise was launched in 2017 on the Cadillac CT6 and has been gradually added to a number of GM models over the past few years. The advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) uses precision lidar mapping data, real-time cameras, radars and GPS to allow braking, acceleration and lane changes, delivering hands-free driving on compatible roads.

It provides Level 2 automated functionality as defined by the Society of Automotive Engineers, meaning a human must monitor the driving at all times.

Credit: Chevy

As time has passed, the number of roads on which Super Cruise is available has dramatically increased, with the most notable expansion of coverage announced a year ago.

Currently, Super Cruise is available on more than 400,000 miles of road network across the U.S. and Canada, including non-divided highways.

Its addition to the Traverse package is likely to significantly add to the model’s showroom appeal, although Chevrolet points out that owners who use their SUV for towing a trailer will not be able to take advantage of the Automatic Lane Change and Lane Change on Demand functionality.

The revamped SUV also comes with a wide range of other driver assistance tech designed to enhance safety.

The standard Chevy Assist package includes automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, following distance indicator, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, and front pedestrian and bicycle braking.

And there is an updated, sensor-based buckle to drive feature, which means those in the front seats have to be wearing seatbelts before the car will move.

The new Traverse will be available in early 2024, with pricing yet to be announced. Scott Bell, vice president of Chevrolet, said: “It builds on the success of its predecessor and will undoubtedly enable us to be in more customer driveways.”