Cruise

The Cruise Origin is the company's purpose-built autonomous vehicle, designed without a steering wheel or pedals. Unveiled in 2020, the Origin was developed in collaboration with GM and Honda as a shared, electric robotaxi. The vehicle features a spacious interior with face-to-face seating for up to six passengers. However, the Origin has faced regulatory delays and production challenges, and Cruise has continued to use modified Chevrolet Bolt EVs for most of its testing and operations.

In October 2023, Cruise faced a major setback when one of its robotaxis was involved in a pedestrian dragging incident in San Francisco. The incident led to a suspension of all driverless operations by the California DMV and prompted the resignation of CEO Kyle Vogt and other top executives. An internal investigation revealed communication failures about the severity of the incident, further damaging trust with regulators and the public.

Under new leadership headed by Marc Whitten, Cruise has been gradually rebuilding its operations. The company implemented enhanced safety protocols, reduced its workforce through layoffs, and resumed limited testing with safety drivers in select cities. GM has continued to fund the effort but has signaled that Cruise must demonstrate a clearer path to commercial viability. The long-term trajectory of Cruise remains a closely watched storyline in the autonomous vehicle industry.