Update: Added statement from a Cadillac representative.

The global microchip shortage strikes again. A reliable source contacted Motor1.com with information showing Super Cruise was, at least temporarily, being cut as an option for the 2022 Cadillac Escalade. A specific reason wasn't provided, but it's not exactly a risky leap to say the enduring semiconductor shortage is behind it.

Upon receiving this news, Motor1.com contacted Cadillac to confirm the information and it is accurate. A Cadillac representative offered the following statement.

"Super Cruise is an important feature for the Cadillac Escalade program. Although it's temporarily unavailable at the start of regular production due to the industry-wide shortage of semiconductors, we're confident in our team's ability to find creative solutions to mitigate the supply chain situation and resume offering the feature for our customers as soon as possible."

 

With Super Cruise temporarily pulled from the Escalade, it means the highly touted semi-autonomous driving system originally launched three years ago is virtually non-existent in GM vehicles. Super Cruise is coming to the GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado, but not until the spring of 2022. Production of the Chevrolet Bolt – which also offers the feature – was expected to resume at the end of September amid issues with its battery pack, but it's unclear if the line is up and running. Super Cruise still shows as an option for the CT4 and CT5  with availability in late summer 2021. It's unclear if the feature is now shipping on the sedans.

Gallery: 2021 Cadillac Escalade: First Drive

In 2020, the Escalade outsold both the CT4 and CT5 combined. With shortages of key microchips being the problem, it makes sense to pull the option for the Escalade and continue production as opposed to sidelining the high-dollar, high-profit luxury SUV. We've certainly seen a similar strategy from a range of other automakers, including the aforementioned Silverado being built without cylinder deactivation systems. With the chip shortage expected to spill over into 2022 and possibly stretch to 2023, it seems the overall situation won't be rectified anytime soon.

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