At Adrenaline, we specialize in balancing luxury and advanced technology with enhanced off-road capability, and our project involving a Cognito 4" Lift Kit on a 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate equipped with GM's Super Cruise driver-assistance system is a great example. For this project, our mission was to boost off-road prowess, maintain premium comfort, and ensure that hands-free driving remained fully operational after modifications.
Understanding Super Cruise and the Latest Self-Driving Systems
Super Cruise is GM's industry-leading, hands-free driver-assistance system designed for compatible, pre-mapped highways by integrating cameras, radar, sensors, and LiDAR-based map data to help drivers cruise long distances with less fatigue. Originally introduced on the Cadillac CT6, as of late 2024, this technology is now available on select Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC models, including the 2023 and 2024 Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate and the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 High Country.
Throughout the U.S. auto market, several brands have embraced semi-autonomous technologies, such as the most recognized Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) capabilities by Tesla and also Ford's BlueCruise, which offers another approach to hands-free driving. Although not identical in execution, these systems share the common goal of enhancing comfort, safety, and convenience, illustrating the industry's move toward more advanced driver-assistance features.
What's the catch with installing a Lift Kit on a Self-Driving vehicle?
A suspension lift kit allows us to raise the truck's suspension for improved ground clearance, better approach angles, and an aggressive stance that's perfect for off-road exploration. However, changing the ride height requires reprogramming the self-driving sensors (in this case, Super Cruise) to ensure the system continues to monitor road conditions accurately. Without proper recalibration, the hands-free driving functionality could become limited or deactivate entirely.
How a Lift Kit Affects Super Cruise Sensors and Calibration
Super Cruise relies on precisely calibrated sensors and cameras. Altering the truck's height can shift those sensors out of alignment, making it harder for the system to detect lane lines, traffic, and other environmental factors. That's why professional calibration after installing a lift kit is essential to ensure driver-assistance systems can perform as intended, even with an elevated stance.
The Challenge: Maintaining Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
With this specific project on the 2023 Denali, our client wanted the rugged look and performance of a lifted truck without losing any of the Sierra's advanced features, especially Super Cruise. The main challenge was implementing the 4" lift kit and larger tires without compromising the delicate sensor alignment required for reliable hands-free driving. Therefore, meticulous attention to detail involving professional recalibration of the system was necessary for success.
Our Lift Kit Installation & Recalibration Process with Super Cruise
Cognito 4” Lift Kit Installation
- Brand: Cognito Motorsports
- Part Number: (COG) 110-P1020
- Installation Time: ~10.5 hours (manufacturer recommended)
This high-quality Cognito 4" lift kit was specifically chosen for its compatibility with late-model Sierra trucks, providing increased ground clearance with a commanding stance, all while preserving as much of the factory ride quality and steering geometry as possible.
Wheel & Tire Upgrade
- New Tires: Nitto Ridge Grappler 305/45R22XL 118T
- Alignment: Completed post-installation
The Nitto Ridge Grapplers complement the lift by offering enhanced traction, off-road durability, and a more aggressive look. After installing these wider, larger-diameter tires, we performed a thorough, precise alignment to guarantee stable, predictable handling both on and off the highway.
Super Cruise Recalibration
Once the lift and tires were installed and set in place, we brought in specialized equipment to reprogram and calibrate the Super Cruise system to carefully adjust the sensors and cameras to account for the new ride height. With the recalibration complete, the Denali regained full Super Cruise functionality, allowing the driver to continue enjoying hands-free travel on compatible roads.
Comprehensive Road Testing
Before delivering the Denali back to our customer, extensive road tests were performed to confirm the self-driving capability was fully operational for safe, hands-free driving at highway speeds. Upon concluding everything was normal and acting as it should, it's safe to say the truck successfully boasts a more aggressive stance without sacrificing the cutting-edge technology that sets it apart.
Elevate Your Truck Without Compromise
At Adrenaline, we thrive on projects that blend engineering expertise with a passion for off-road adventure, and this 2023 GMC Sierra Denali Ultimate demonstrates what's possible when you combine advanced technology with top-tier components and precise technique. In this case, the result is a badass-looking truck that can tackle rough terrain while maintaining the luxury, safety, and technological edge we all love.
Ready to elevate your vehicle without losing advanced features like Super Cruise? Contact us today so we can help you achieve the perfect balance between rugged capability and high-tech sophistication with your ride!
