GM introduces new electronic platform for future vehicles

The system is debuting in the new Cadillac CT5.

General Motors unveiled a new electronic platform on Monday that it says will allow for the rollout of next-generation vehicles with advanced onboard technology.

The new platform, which is making its production debut in the 2020 Cadillac CT5 sedan, will essentially future-proof GM vehicles for the next decade. The new system is capable of handling up to 4.5 terabytes of data per hour -- or roughly double that of GM's current electronic platform -- which the company says will provide it with the kind of digital power needed for advanced technologies like electric propulsion and Super Cruise driver assistance features.

"The critical role of software and its importance to our vehicles, both now and for years to come, cannot be overstated,” said GM President Mark Reuss. "Our new digital vehicle platform and its eventual successors will underpin all our future innovations across a wide range of technological advancements, including EVs and expanded automated driving.”

The new system will also allow for over-the-air updates thanks to an integrated Ethernet connection with speeds up to 10Gbps. Perhaps more importantly, GM says the system includes a major leap forward in terms of cybersecurity.

GM expects the new electronic platform to be in most of its global vehicles by 2023.