During National Teen Driver Safety Week, General Motors is spotlighting its Teen Driver technology, designed to promote safe driving habits for first-time drivers. Recognizing the challenges inexperienced drivers face, GM’s system provides parents with tools to help their teens navigate the road safely and responsibly.
“Teen Driver was developed after reviewing data that highlights the leading causes of fatalities among teen drivers,” explains Suzanne Johansson, GM’s head of child safety. “By regulating certain aspects of vehicle operation, we can help reduce distractions and risks for young drivers.”
How Teen Driver Technology Works
GM’s Teen Driver system allows parents or guardians to designate a specific key fob as the Teen Driver key. When the vehicle is started using this key, various safety features automatically engage and remain active throughout the drive:
- Seatbelt Enforcement: The audio system and any paired devices remain muted until all front-seat passengers are buckled up. In select models, the Buckle to Drive feature prevents the driver from shifting out of Park until everyone in the front seat is wearing their seatbelt.
- Speed and Audio Controls: Parents can set a speed warning between 40 and 75 mph, and an 85-mph speed limiter is also available. Additionally, they can set a maximum volume for the audio system to minimize distractions.
- Driver Assistance Activation: While Super Cruise driver assistance is blocked with the Teen key, essential safety systems like traction control, stability control, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking remain active and cannot be disabled.
Unique Feature: The Teen Driver Report Card
One standout feature of GM’s Teen Driver technology is the Teen Driver Report Card. After each drive using the Teen key, parents can access a PIN-protected summary that includes information like the distance driven, maximum speed reached, and instances of aggressive acceleration. It also indicates whether safety systems, such as Traction Control or Stability Control, were triggered.
“The Report Card offers an opportunity for open discussions about driving habits,” Johansson notes. “It’s a practical tool for reinforcing safe driving practices with teens, helping them understand the importance of conscious decision-making on the road.”
Standard Equipment Across Multiple Models
First introduced in the 2016 Chevy Malibu, Teen Driver technology is now a standard feature on numerous models across the Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick, and GMC lineups. This widespread availability underscores GM’s commitment to driver safety and supporting families as they navigate the challenges of teaching teens to drive responsibly.
While these safety features are invaluable, GM emphasizes that no technology can replace a driver’s responsibility to remain attentive to traffic and road conditions. “Safety features are designed to assist, but the driver’s awareness is the most crucial factor in avoiding accidents,” Johansson reminds.
As General Motors continues to innovate in driver safety, Teen Driver technology remains a key part of its efforts to make roads safer for everyone.
