Mercedes-Benz is the first manufacturer to officially receive Level 3 autonomous driving approval for German roads
Mercedes-Benz has made history by becoming the first manufacturer to officially receive Level 3 autonomous driving approval for German roads. The company has introduced the Drive Pilot system in its S-Class and EQS sedan models, which have been certified by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) as Level 3 systems. The S-Class and EQS sedan models are the first production vehicles to be equipped with this technology. The official sales release of the vehicles equipped with the Drive Pilot system is on 17.05.2022.
The Drive Pilot system is a conditionally automated driving system that performs the dynamic driving task while allowing the driver freedom to tend to other activities. The system is designed to work on federal motorways and requires a vehicle driving in front of the car that the system stops at and determines. The system only works at a speed below 60 km/h and is declared as a traffic jam assistance system. Lane changes are not permitted by the Drive Pilot and are therefore not possible.
The Drive Pilot system is available in either the combustion class or the EQS model. The current surcharge for level 3 autonomous driving that you currently pay at Mercedes-Benz in Germany is around 5000€ for the S-Class and it is a bit more expensive for the EQS, and the current surcharge is around 7500€. Since not everyone can or wants to afford an S-Class or EQS, the technology will be used across Mercedes classes in the future.
The Drive Pilot system uses three systems combined, the accident sensors, the normal driving assistance package, and additionally, the Lidar sensor. The normal driving assistance package includes a radar system and a camera system. The Lidar sensor provides high-precision positioning information and is used to detect road geometry and traffic signs.
The Drive Pilot system uses a variety of sensors, including Lidar, cameras, radar, and microphones, to monitor the road and traffic conditions. The system also uses a digital HD map and GPS to accurately locate the vehicle. The Drive Pilot system is equipped with steering and braking actuators that can take over the vehicle’s control in heavy traffic or stop-and-go traffic. The system is also equipped with a driver monitoring camera that ensures the driver is paying attention to the road.
The Drive Pilot system is a Level 3 system, which means that it is a conditionally automated driving system that can perform the dynamic driving task in a limited operational design domain. The system requires the driver to be ready to take over the control of the vehicle at any time. The Drive Pilot system is equipped with redundancy and stability control systems, as well as airbags, to ensure the safety of the passengers in case of an emergency.
Mercedes-Benz has announced that the production-ready version of the Drive Pilot system will make its on-road debut in California and Nevada in late 2023. The company plans to deploy a limited fleet of vehicles equipped with the Drive Pilot system in these states to collect real-world data and improve the technology and safety for the future with more knowledge.
In conclusion, Mercedes-Benz has become the first manufacturer to officially receive Level 3 autonomous driving approval for German roads. The Drive Pilot system is a conditionally automated driving system that performs the dynamic driving task while allowing the driver freedom to tend to other activities. The system is designed to work on federal motorways and requires a vehicle driving in front of the car that the system stops at and determines. The Drive Pilot system is equipped with a variety of sensors and safety features to ensure the safety of the passengers in case of an emergency. Mercedes-Benz plans to deploy a limited fleet of vehicles equipped with the Drive Pilot system in California and Nevada to collect real-world data and improve the technology and safety for the future with more knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the expected cost of Mercedes vehicles equipped with Level 3 self-driving capabilities?
The pricing of Mercedes vehicles equipped with Level 3 self-driving capabilities is expected to vary depending on the model and the specific features included. However, it is likely that the cost of these vehicles will be higher than that of traditional vehicles due to the advanced technology involved.
When is the release date for Mercedes’ Level 3 self-driving technology?
Mercedes’ Level 3 self-driving technology is already available in some of its models, including the 2024 EQS sedan and S-Class. However, the release date for other models equipped with this technology may vary depending on the market.
How does Mercedes’ Drive Pilot system compare to other Level 3 autonomous technologies?
Mercedes’ Drive Pilot system is one of the most advanced Level 3 autonomous technologies available on the market. It uses a combination of sensors, cameras, and software to enable the vehicle to take over certain driving functions in certain conditions. However, it is important to note that other Level 3 autonomous technologies may have different features and capabilities.
What are the costs associated with upgrading to Level 3 self-driving in a Mercedes?
The costs associated with upgrading to Level 3 self-driving in a Mercedes may vary depending on the specific model and features included. However, it is likely that the cost of upgrading to Level 3 self-driving will be higher than that of traditional vehicles due to the advanced technology involved.
Which specific Mercedes models are equipped with the Level 3 Drive Pilot system?
The 2024 EQS sedan and S-Class are currently equipped with Mercedes’ Level 3 Drive Pilot system. However, other models may be equipped with this technology in the future.
What responsibilities do drivers have when using Mercedes’ Level 3 self-driving features?
Drivers are still responsible for monitoring the vehicle and being ready to take control of the vehicle at any time when using Mercedes’ Level 3 self-driving features. It is important for drivers to understand the capabilities and limitations of the technology and to always be aware of their surroundings while driving.