Mercedes’ New Automated Overtaking Feature: A Step Towards Autonomous Driving

Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) have been a topic of debate among car enthusiasts. While some find features like lane keeping assistance (LKA) irritating, car makers are pushing forward on the road to autonomy. Mercedes, for instance, has introduced an automated overtaking feature on its new E-Class in Europe, building on its existing availability in North America on the C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, and EQ series.

Mercedes’ Automatic Lane Change (ALC) system is part of their ‘Active Distance Assist Distronic with Active Steering Assist’. When the car is traveling between 47.3mph and 87mph (80-140kph) and detects a slower vehicle ahead, it can automatically initiate a lane change if it detects lane markings and structurally separated directional lanes, such as dual carriageways. The system can perform a full overtake if the lane markings are clear and there is enough clearance.

To use the ALC feature, the car must be equipped with MBUX Navigation, and the road on which the maneuver is performed must have a speed limit. While the driver does not have to do anything else to initiate the lane change, their hands must remain on the wheel. Additionally, the system can assist with navigating road exits and merging from one highway to another.

In terms of autonomous driving levels, ALC is classified as SAE level two. This means that while the car can steer and the driver’s feet are off the pedals, the driver is still considered to be in control. Examples of level two autonomous features include adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking. Mercedes refers to ALC as “level two-plus,” bridging the gap between level two and level three, where the car can drive itself in certain conditions without direct control from the driver.

ALC represents a significant advancement from LKA, which combines lane centring and cruise control to provide automated steering, braking, and acceleration. However, it falls short of complete hands-free control. While not a new feature to the industry, with Tesla and JLR also offering similar functions, the development of autonomous driving technology is progressing slowly.

The fact that Mercedes had to adapt its technology to suit European roads instead of relying on the American version highlights the complexity of developing autonomous vehicles. The conditions and regulations that need to be met for safe and reliable autonomous driving are numerous, making the process challenging.

For those who are skeptical or hesitant about autonomous driving, it is reassuring to know that progress towards fully autonomous vehicles through the evolution of ADAS is slower than initially anticipated. The introduction of ALC demonstrates that car manufacturers are taking a cautious approach, ensuring that the technology is adapted and refined to suit specific regions and road conditions.

While the road to fully autonomous driving may still be long, Mercedes’ automated overtaking feature is a significant step forward. It showcases the potential of ADAS technology to enhance safety and convenience on the road. As car makers continue to refine and develop these features, we can expect further advancements in autonomous driving capabilities in the future.