# GM Patents Launch Control for Drag Racing

> GM's new launch control system watches drag strip lights and auto-launches cars without driver input.
- Title: GM Patents Launch Control for Drag Racing · Road & Track
- Summary: GM's new launch control system watches drag strip lights and auto-launches cars without driver input.
- Keywords: launch control, drag strip, christmas tree, patent, Road & Track
- Source: Road & Track — https://roadandtrack.com/news/a74347790/gm-patent-launch-control-watches-drag-strip-christmas-tree-launches-for-you
- Author: Stephen Rivers
- Published: 2026-11-05T19:24:06+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: gm, launch control, drag strip, christmas tree, patent, cars, sports
## GM Patents Launch Control
GM has patented technology that watches drag strip Christmas Tree lights and auto-launches cars without driver input.
## System Uses Vehicle Cameras
The system uses on-board cameras to identify the drag strip Christmas Tree and predict launch timing.
## Predicts Green Light Timing
It calculates when the race begins by comparing yellow light sequences against stored timing patterns.
## Patent Details
U.S. Patent 12,780,203 was filed in January 2025 and granted on November 3, 2026.
## Driver Activation
Drivers activate launch control by placing feet on both pedals and then removing them once the system takes over.
## System Benefits
The system accounts for different event light sequences and calculates vehicle movement delay automatically.
## Key takeaway

GM has patented a system that automatically launches cars based on drag strip light timing, eliminating driver input.