Mercedes-Benz Introduces Production-Ready Version of DRIVE PILOT: The World’s First SAE Level 3 Autonomous Driving Technology
Mercedes-Benz is set to revolutionize the automotive industry with the introduction of its production-ready version of DRIVE PILOT, making it the first automaker in the world to offer certified SAE Level 3 autonomous driving technology in the United States. This groundbreaking technology will be available in the fourth quarter of this year, initially through a subscription model for residents of California and Nevada, with plans to expand its availability to more states in the future.
The DRIVE PILOT system will debut on the EQS electric sedan and the S-Class, marketed as ‘Drive Pilot: First Class’. It goes beyond Level 2 systems by allowing owners to release their hands from the wheel and divert their attention from the road. However, it is crucial for drivers to be prepared to regain control instantly, meaning they cannot fall asleep or become distracted while using the system.
Dimitris Psillakis, CEO of Mercedes USA, describes DRIVE PILOT as a “technological game changer” and a significant leap forward in the pursuit of conditionally automated driving. The system aims to enhance safety and technology while giving precious time back to customers during heavy traffic situations.
To activate the DRIVE PILOT service, owners can access it through the Mercedes me connect store. The annual subscription for this groundbreaking technology will start at $2,500 in its first year, with Mercedes planning to announce additional offer options at a later date.
The DRIVE PILOT system is designed for use at speeds of up to 40 mph (64 km/h) on suitable freeway sections, making it ideal for navigating rush hour traffic. It utilizes a suite of sensors, including cameras, LiDAR sensors, road wetness sensors, and microphones, to safely navigate the road. These sensors allow the system to detect emergency vehicles nearby, ensuring a safe driving experience.
Markus Schafer, Mercedes’ CTO, emphasizes that DRIVE PILOT is the world’s first and only system for conditionally automated driving with internationally valid type approval. The system’s sophisticated architecture, based on redundancy with various sensor types, ensures safety and reliability. Schafer believes that redundancy is key for safe automated driving at Level 3 and beyond.
Mercedes plans to roll out the DRIVE PILOT technology to more owners of 2024 model year vehicles after the initial launch later this year. The company is also actively working to expand its approval to additional states in the near future, allowing more drivers to experience the benefits of this groundbreaking autonomous driving technology.
In conclusion, Mercedes-Benz is set to make history with the introduction of its production-ready version of DRIVE PILOT, offering certified SAE Level 3 autonomous driving technology. This groundbreaking system will provide owners with a new level of convenience and safety on the road, allowing them to release their hands from the wheel and divert their attention from the road. With plans to expand its availability to more states in the future, Mercedes is leading the way in the development of autonomous driving technology.