Biplab Das 
Days after halting U.S. operations for a safety review, General Motors’ Cruise self-driving car unit is actively testing on public roads in Dubai and Japan, maintaining a cautious approach.
U.S. safety review pause
Cruise recently suspended all U.S. car trips, including those with safety drivers, to conduct a thorough safety review prompted by an October incident. This move follows the recall of 950 vehicles and a commitment to rebuild public trust.
Overseas testing continues
While Cruise temporarily halted U.S. operations, its identical vehicles continue small-scale public testing in Dubai and Japan. The company clarified that this decision was part of a “small pilot” initiative but did not disclose the number of vehicles involved.
Safety and public trust
In a blog post, Cruise emphasized the orderly pause as a measure to enhance public trust and reassured its commitment to advancing autonomous vehicle (AV) technology through closed-course training and active simulation programs.
Recall reasons
The recall of Cruise vehicles in the U.S. was prompted by concerns about the collision detection subsystem’s post-crash response, a potential risk highlighted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
California regulatory actions
Cruise faced regulatory actions in California, where the Department of Motor Vehicles ordered the removal of its driverless cars from state roads, citing safety risks and alleged misrepresentation of technology safety. The incident involved a collision on October 2, raising questions about disclosure.
Cruise in global context
Cruise, alongside Alphabet’s Waymo, stands as a prominent player in the autonomous vehicle landscape. Despite challenges, it had previously operated hundreds of driverless autos in San Francisco and unveiled expansive growth plans.
International testing locations
In Dubai, Cruise has been visible on city outskirts, offering free rides in collaboration with a local entity named TXAI. Meanwhile, in Japan, Honda and Cruise jointly test self-driving vehicles in Utsunomiya and Haga town, focusing on Level 2 autonomy, requiring a safety driver.
As Cruise navigates through safety concerns and regulatory scrutiny in the U.S., its strategic decision to continue testing overseas raises pertinent questions. The company’s commitment to safety and public trust remains under close observation as it aims to maintain a leading position in the global autonomous vehicle landscape.
