General Motors has patented a launch control system that automatically manages braking and throttle input at the drag strip, removing the need for driver reaction time at the starting line.
The system, covered under U.S. Patent 12,780,203 and granted on November 3, uses on-board cameras to identify the drag strip's Christmas Tree light sequence. Once it recognizes the lights, it prompts the driver to activate launch control. The driver places both feet on the brake and throttle pedals, then removes them as the system takes over.
The software analyzes the timing patterns of different light configurations. A Pro Tree illuminates all three amber lights simultaneously before turning green 0.4 seconds later, while a Sportsman Tree illuminates the amber lights sequentially with half-second intervals. GM's system calculates which pattern is running and predicts the exact moment the green light will appear.
The technology even accounts for the delay between when the car receives a movement command and when it physically moves forward. Rather than waiting passively for the green light, the system begins preparing the launch in advance based on its prediction of the light sequence.
GM built this technology on existing launch control systems already available in modern performance cars. The patent application was originally filed in January 2025 and published in July 2026. However, GM has not announced any specific vehicle or production timeline for this system.