Mercedes-Benz has officially ushered in a new era of automotive innovation by becoming the first automaker to receive U.S. state approval for a SAE Level 3 conditionally automated driving system. Dubbed DRIVE PILOT, this groundbreaking technology allows drivers to confidently delegate the dynamic driving task to their Mercedes Benz Autopilot Car under specific conditions, transforming commute time into valuable personal time. Launching initially in California and Nevada in late 2023 with a limited fleet of EQS Sedans, and expanding to MY2024 EQS Sedan and S-Class models in early 2024, DRIVE PILOT is set to redefine the luxury driving experience and solidify Mercedes-Benz’s position at the forefront of automotive technology.
This landmark achievement marks a significant step forward in the realm of automated driving, establishing Mercedes-Benz as a global leader in deploying sophisticated, customer-ready autonomous features. The approvals granted by California and Nevada for operation on major freeways underscore the rigorous development and safety validation behind DRIVE PILOT. While current regulations are state-specific, Mercedes-Benz has expressed its commitment to expanding the availability of this revolutionary Mercedes Benz autopilot car technology to additional U.S. markets in the near future, aligning with evolving regulatory landscapes.
Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes‑Benz Group AG, and Chief Technology Officer, emphasizes the critical role of redundancy in the system’s architecture, stating, “DRIVE PILOT is the world’s first and only system for conditionally automated driving with internationally valid type approval. It is engineered with a sophisticated system architecture based on redundancy with many different sensor types. I strongly believe that redundancy is key for safe automated driving for level 3 and beyond. Safety is one of Mercedes-Benz core values. Responsible handling of this technology is our top priority and the key to acceptance among customers and in society.” This commitment to safety and technological advancement is echoed by Dimitris Psillakis, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA, who hails DRIVE PILOT as “a technological game changer and incredible leap forward in the pursuit of conditionally automated driving,” reinforcing the brand’s dedication to safety, technology leadership, and enriching customer experiences.
Unveiling DRIVE PILOT: Mercedes Benz’s Level 3 Autopilot System
DRIVE PILOT is not just another driver assistance feature; it’s a sophisticated SAE Level 3 conditionally automated driving system. This means that in designated environments, specifically on suitable freeway sections at speeds up to 40 mph and in high-density traffic, the Mercedes Benz autopilot car can actively take over the driving task. Upon activation, DRIVE PILOT assumes control of speed, distance, and lane keeping, allowing the driver to temporarily disengage from the immediate demands of driving.
Alt text: Mercedes Benz DRIVE PILOT activation interface displayed on the vehicle’s central screen, showcasing the user-friendly engagement of the Level 3 autopilot system.
One of the most compelling aspects of DRIVE PILOT is the freedom it grants to drivers. While the Mercedes Benz autopilot car is in control, the system enables the use of certain applications on the vehicle’s central display that are typically restricted during manual driving. This opens up possibilities for drivers to engage in productive or leisure activities, effectively reclaiming time during commutes or congested traffic situations. Imagine catching up on emails, browsing the internet, or enjoying in-car entertainment, all while the Mercedes Benz autopilot car smoothly navigates the road.
The Technology Powering Mercedes Benz Autopilot Cars
The reliability and safety of DRIVE PILOT are paramount, and Mercedes-Benz has engineered this system with meticulous attention to detail. Building upon the robust sensor suite of the Driver Assistance Package, DRIVE PILOT incorporates additional, critical technologies for safe, conditionally automated driving. These include:
- LiDAR: Adding an extra layer of environmental perception, LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) provides precise 3D mapping of the vehicle’s surroundings, enhancing the system’s awareness, especially in challenging visibility conditions.
- Rear Window Camera: Complementing the existing camera systems, a rear window camera further expands the field of vision, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the traffic situation.
- Microphones for Emergency Vehicles: Specially designed microphones can detect the sirens of emergency vehicles, enabling the Mercedes Benz autopilot car to react appropriately and safely to approaching emergency situations.
- Road Wetness Sensor: Integrated into the wheel well, a road wetness sensor provides crucial information about road surface conditions, allowing the system to adapt its driving behavior for optimal safety in wet conditions.
Alt text: Close-up view of Mercedes Benz DRIVE PILOT sensor suite, highlighting the integration of LiDAR technology alongside cameras and radar for enhanced environmental perception in their autopilot system.
Beyond these specialized sensors, the Mercedes Benz autopilot car equipped with DRIVE PILOT boasts redundant steering and braking actuators, as well as a redundant onboard electrical system. This critical redundancy ensures vehicle maneuverability and control even in the unlikely event of a system failure, guaranteeing a safe and controlled handover back to the driver if necessary.
Furthermore, DRIVE PILOT relies on a high-precision positioning system, far surpassing conventional GPS in accuracy. This system, capable of pinpointing the vehicle’s location within inches, works in conjunction with anonymized data from LiDAR, cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors, as well as a continuously updated digital HD map. This HD map provides a three-dimensional representation of the road, including geometry, traffic signs, route characteristics, and real-time traffic events like accidents or construction zones. The map data is stored both in backend data centers and onboard the vehicle, ensuring constant comparison and updates for optimal performance of the Mercedes Benz autopilot car system.
DRIVE PILOT Availability and Subscription Model
DRIVE PILOT will initially be available on select EQS Sedan and S-Class models in California and Nevada. Mercedes-Benz is offering access to DRIVE PILOT via the U.S. Mercedes me connect store, utilizing a subscription model. Starting at $2,500, with additional subscription options to be announced, this approach allows customers to engage with the advanced Level 3 functionality in a flexible manner.
Alt text: Sleek Mercedes Benz EQS Sedan showcasing DRIVE PILOT technology, illustrating the integration of Level 3 autonomous driving capabilities in their flagship electric vehicle.
The subscription model is designed to ensure customers are fully informed about the system’s capabilities at the time of activation and provides adaptability for individual needs. For instance, customers who relocate to areas without Level 3 enabled freeways can choose not to renew their subscription, offering a practical and cost-effective approach to accessing this cutting-edge Mercedes Benz autopilot car technology.
The Future of Mercedes Benz Autopilot and Automated Driving
Mercedes-Benz is proactively shaping the future of automated driving, integrating both technological advancements and ethical considerations into its development process. The company has even developed turquoise-colored Automated Driving Marker Lights to visually indicate when DRIVE PILOT is engaged, enhancing transparency and awareness for other road users. While a national regulatory framework for such visual indicators is still evolving in the U.S., Mercedes-Benz is actively engaged in discussions with state and federal agencies to facilitate the broader adoption of standardized technologies for automated driving.
Mercedes-Benz underscores its commitment to legal compliance, ensuring that DRIVE PILOT adheres to all regulatory requirements for public road operation. An interdisciplinary team of experts meticulously translates traffic regulations into software, and Mercedes-Benz complies fully with NHTSA guidelines for ADS-equipped vehicles. This dedication to safety, legal adherence, and continuous innovation positions Mercedes-Benz as a driving force in the evolution of automated driving and the future of the Mercedes Benz autopilot car.
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About Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), headquartered in Atlanta, is responsible for the distribution, marketing and customer service for all Mercedes-Benz products in the United States. MBUSA offers drivers the most diverse lineup in the luxury segment with 18 model lines ranging from the sporty GLA SUV to the flagship S-Class and the dynamic all-electric Mercedes-EQ family. MBUSA is also responsible for Mercedes-Benz Vans in the U.S. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found at www.mbusa.com and www.mbvans.com.
- SAE Level 3: the automated driving function takes over certain driving tasks. However, the driver must be ready to take control of the vehicle at all times when prompted to intervene by the vehicle.
- Which secondary activities of the driver are legally permissible depends on the respective national or state road traffic regulations.
