Electrical & Controls Integration Lab

Automobiles have evolved rapidly from the strictly mechanical devices of the past to today's complex electromechanical systems. Future vehicles will rely even more heavily on sophisticated sensors, control systems, on-board computation, and communication with external information sources.

The Electrical & Controls Integration Lab is focused on developing the ideal vehicle – one that

  • never crashes
  • makes everyone an ideal driver
  • rarely needs service, is highly efficient, and extremely “clean”
  • provides the same information and entertainment options available at home
  • anticipates the needs of the driver and adapts its features and performance to meet them
  • eventually, may even drive itself.

Although the auto industry still has quite a way to go to get to such a vehicle, it's not as far as some people would imagine. GM R&D is doing key research in active safety, electrical and electronics architecture, vehicle, chassis, and powertrain control, energy management systems for alternative propulsion, driver interface systems, and telematics. The intent is to create a new generation of electronics-based, driver-friendly, smart GM cars and trucks that set the standard for safety, responsiveness, environmental compliance, and fun.

Learn about our projects
Collision Avoidance Technologies

Read researcher profiles
Ron Colgin