Driving the Future: Mercedes-Benz Autonomous S-Class Prototype Takes on Beijing

Autocar recently had the opportunity to test drive Mercedes-Benz’s latest autonomous driving technology at their research center in Beijing. The test drive involved one of the fleet of S-Class prototypes, showcasing the cutting-edge capabilities of self-driving vehicles.

Advanced Technology at Work

The first thing that stands out is the additional digital display, which provides a detailed map of all road users in the vicinity, ensuring a safe and efficient driving experience. The autonomous mode can be activated with a simple press of a button on the steering wheel after setting the destination via the navigation system.

Navigating Beijing’s Busy Streets

During the test drive, the autonomous S-Class effortlessly maneuvered through Beijing’s bustling streets, seamlessly changing lanes, navigating busy intersections, and even performing a U-turn with precision. The prototype showcased impressive capabilities, reaching speeds of up to 60kph (37mph) and responding to traffic lights and surrounding vehicles effectively.

Challenges and Progress

While there were some minor bugs encountered during the drive, such as sudden braking in response to erratic lane changes by other vehicles, Mercedes-Benz’s chief software officer, Magnus Östberg, assured that these issues are being addressed through ongoing software updates and calibration.

The Future of Autonomous Driving

The successful 30-minute test drive in Beijing’s rush hour traffic demonstrated Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to bringing autonomous driving technology to reality. As for when this technology will be available in Europe, Mercedes-Benz indicated that it is ultimately dependent on regulatory approval.

In conclusion, Mercedes-Benz’s autonomous S-Class prototype showcased impressive capabilities and marked a significant step towards a future where self-driving cars are a common sight on our roads.