US automobile manufacturer General Motors (GM) is set to start production versions of its Cruise AV at its Orion Township assembly plant in Michigan following a year of manufacturing test vehicles.

The roof modules for self-driving vehicles will be assembled at the company’s Brownstown facility.

Expected to be commercially available next year, the Cruise AV is designed to operate safely on its own without driver, steering wheel, pedals and other associated controls.

GM president Dan Ammann said: “We’re continuing to make great progress on our plans to commercialise in 2019.

“Our Orion and Brownstown teams have proven experience in building high-quality self-driving test vehicles and battery packs, so they are well-prepared to produce the Cruise AV.”

The company also plans to invest more than $100m to upgrade its Michigan and Brownstown facilities.

“Whether it involves traditional vehicles or advance technology, our members are highly capable of delivering great products.”

The production of roof modules for self-driving vehicles has already started.

Since January last year, UAW Local 5960 workers deployed at the Orion plant have developed three generations of Cruise self-driving test vehicles designed to operate in various urban environments.

Production of the fourth generation of the vehicle is scheduled to start next year.

UAW General Motors Department vice-president and director Cindy Estrada said: “The UAW is committed to preparing our members for the future of advanced mobility and this investment recognises our willingness to work together to build these self-driving vehicles.

“Whether it involves traditional vehicles or advance technology, our members are highly capable of delivering great products.”

In addition to Cruise AV, the Orion facility will continue to manufacture the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Sonic vehicles.