Mercedes-Benz has officially announced a groundbreaking achievement in the realm of automotive technology: its DRIVE PILOT system has been certified for use in California. This certification marks a significant milestone, making Mercedes-Benz the first automaker authorized to introduce an SAE Level 3 conditionally automated driving system within a standard production vehicle for operation on public freeways in California, the most populous state in the United States. This pioneering Mercedes Benz Drive technology will be available as an option for the 2024 model year Mercedes-Benz S-Class and EQS Sedan models in the U.S. market, with initial deliveries to customers commencing in late 2023. Prior to this, Nevada confirmed the system’s compliance with state regulations in January 2023, and Mercedes-Benz is committed to expanding the availability of this innovative system to further markets in the future.
Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG and Chief Technology Officer, responsible for Development and Procurement, emphasized the significance of this achievement. “Mercedes-Benz DRIVE PILOT stands as the world’s only SAE Level 3 system possessing internationally valid type approval. It is built upon a remarkably robust foundation, establishing new benchmarks for the industry. DRIVE PILOT leverages a highly sophisticated vehicle architecture founded on redundancy, incorporating a multitude of sensors that enable comfortable and safe conditionally automated driving. The certifications from authorities in both California and Nevada serve as further validation that redundancy is the safe, and consequently, the correct approach.”
Understanding DRIVE PILOT: SAE Level 3 Conditionally Automated Driving System
The core function of DRIVE PILOT lies in its SAE Level 3 conditionally automated driving capability. During a journey under conditionally automated driving, the system empowers the driver to temporarily divert their attention from the immediate traffic environment and engage in permissible secondary activities. Notably, when DRIVE PILOT is engaged, specific applications that are typically restricted while driving can be accessed on the vehicle’s central display, enhancing the in-car experience.
On designated freeway segments and in situations characterized by high traffic density, DRIVE PILOT is designed to offer to assume control of the dynamic driving task at speeds up to 40 mph. The activation controls are intuitively positioned on the steering wheel rim, conveniently located above the thumb recesses on both the left and right sides. Once the system detects suitable conditions, it signals its availability via these control buttons. Upon driver activation, DRIVE PILOT takes command of speed and distance regulation, seamlessly maintaining the vehicle within its lane. The system intelligently integrates route profiles, on-route events, and traffic sign recognition into its operational parameters. Furthermore, it is engineered to proactively respond to unforeseen traffic scenarios, employing independent evasive maneuvers within the lane or initiating braking as necessary.
In critical situations where the driver fails to regain control, even after escalating prompts and the expiration of a designated takeover period (potentially due to a severe health issue), the system is programmed to execute a controlled deceleration of the vehicle to a complete standstill. Simultaneously, the hazard warning lights are activated. Once the vehicle is safely stationary, the Mercedes-Benz emergency call system is automatically initiated, and the doors are unlocked to facilitate access for first responders, ensuring passenger safety and facilitating prompt assistance.
Dimitris Psillakis, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA, highlighted the company’s commitment to innovation and customer convenience. “We take immense pride in extending our leadership in Level 3 conditionally automated driving and maintaining our position at the forefront of innovation within the U.S. market through this California certification. This transformative system underscores our dedication to leading in both safety and technology, offering unparalleled convenience to our valued customers by affording them valuable time back while ensuring safe navigation through today’s congested freeways.” This commitment to enhancing the mercedes benz drive experience is central to their technological advancements.
Redundancy: A Cornerstone of Safe and Reliable Operation
For Mercedes-Benz, safety is paramount in the deployment of any automated driving system. This principle necessitates stringent demands on operational reliability. DRIVE PILOT builds upon the foundation of surround sensors incorporated in the Driver Assistance Package, augmented by additional sensors deemed essential by Mercedes-Benz for secure conditionally automated driving. These supplementary sensors include LiDAR, a rear window camera, microphones designed to detect emergency vehicle sirens, and a road wetness sensor integrated within the wheel well. Vehicles equipped with the optional DRIVE PILOT system also feature redundant steering and braking actuators, along with a redundant on-board electrical system. This redundancy architecture ensures vehicle maneuverability even in the event of a component failure, guaranteeing a safe and controlled handover back to the driver.
Future Outlook: Collaborative Innovation for Enhanced Automated Driving
Mercedes-Benz is strategically focused on advancing SAE Level 3 conditionally automated driving, with a long-term objective of achieving operational speeds of up to 80 mph (130 km/h) in its finalized iteration. Further enhancements in sensing modalities are planned to ensure the system consistently meets the rigorous safety standards of Mercedes-Benz. To realize this ambitious vision, the company is actively collaborating with industry leaders such as NVIDIA and Luminar. These partnerships complement Mercedes-Benz’s existing network of collaborations with top-tier, cutting-edge technology companies. This latest achievement of SAE Level 3 certification by Mercedes-Benz represents a monumental step forward in automated driving, and these strategic partnerships will amplify the company’s ambitions for future advancements in this rapidly evolving field. The future of the mercedes benz drive is being shaped by these innovations.
About Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, is responsible for the distribution, marketing, and customer service operations for all Mercedes-Benz products within the United States. MBUSA offers the most diverse lineup in the luxury vehicle segment, featuring 18 model lines ranging from the sporty GLA SUV to the flagship S-Class and the dynamic all-electric Mercedes-EQ family. MBUSA also manages Mercedes-Benz Vans in the U.S. For comprehensive information about MBUSA and its product offerings, please visit www.mbusa.com and www.mbvans.com.
