GM taps Nvidia AI chips for automated cars, factories

General Motors and Nvidia on Tuesday announced an expanded partnership to further leverage artificial intelligence in vehicle development, manufacturing, and the advancement of self-driving cars.

GM has already been using Nvidia’s powerful computer chips for training various AI models, but new aspects of the partnership will include using Nvidia’s Omniverse simulation program to create digital versions of existing and planned assembly lines, enabling virtual testing and production simulations.

AI is also reshaping manufacturing in the real world, particularly in robotics for precision welding and material handling, helping to boost efficiency.

GM said it will also start using Nvidia’s DRIVE AGX chips in its vehicles for future electronic driver-assist features, including automated systems like Super Cruise. Other companies that have partnered with Nvidia for automated driving systems include BYD, Mercedes-Benz, Rivian, and Volvo. GM’s shuttered self-driving technology company, Cruise, also relied on Nvidia chips.

Another key area where Nvidia’s chips come into play is powering electrical architectures that run unified software for controlling almost all aspects of the vehicle—leading to more customizable and capable vehicles. GM said a unified software platform is being developed to support everything from compact crossovers to full-size trucks and SUVs.

More and more automakers are integrating advanced electronic features into their vehicles. Since many of these capabilities can be offered as subscriptions—like GM does with Super Cruise—they create new revenue streams for automakers.