GM unveils sweeping tech and self-driving overhaul

General Motors envisions a future where you can dispatch your car to pick up groceries, take your kids to soccer practice and handle other errands — all without you behind the wheel.Why it matters: As software, AI and autonomous driving reshape the auto industry, GM is taking a big swing amid growing competition from Chinese rivals and leaders in the race toward self-driving cars.Driving the news: GM on Wednesday unveiled a sweeping technology strategy combining autonomous driving, artificial intelligence and a new centralized computing system that will underpin much of its future lineup.Among the highlights:Its autonomous "eyes-off" highway-driving technology, slated to debut on the Cadillac Escalade IQ in 2028, will extend to its most popular gas-powered SUVs and pickups and its next crop of electric vehicles, too.OnStar, GM's 30-year-old emergency call service, is becoming an intelligent AI assistant to deliver more personalized, proactive experiences to passengers.And the company is leveraging AI and virtual engineering in an effort to halve the time it takes to develop new vehicles, crucial to competing more effectively with faster-moving Chinese rivals.Among the most intrigu…

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