Mercedes-Benz has officially announced a groundbreaking achievement in the realm of automotive technology: the certification of its advanced DRIVE PILOT system in California. This prestigious approval marks a significant milestone, positioning Mercedes-Benz as the first automaker authorized to introduce a SAE Level 3 conditionally automated driving system in a standard production vehicle for use on California’s public freeways. This makes experiencing a true Mercedes Benz Drive with cutting-edge automation a reality for customers in the most populous U.S. state.
The DRIVE PILOT system will be available as an option for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and EQS Sedan models in the U.S., with deliveries commencing in late 2023. California’s certification follows Nevada’s earlier approval in January 2023, underscoring the system’s compliance with stringent state regulations and Mercedes-Benz’s ambition to expand its availability to further markets globally.
Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG and Chief Technology Officer, emphasizes the significance of this achievement: “Mercedes-Benz DRIVE PILOT stands as the world’s only SAE Level 3 system boasting internationally valid type approval. It’s engineered upon a robust framework, establishing new benchmarks for the industry. Utilizing a highly sophisticated vehicle architecture built on redundancy and a multitude of sensors, DRIVE PILOT enables comfortable and safe conditionally automated driving. The certifications from authorities in both California and Nevada reaffirm that redundancy is not only the safest approach but also the correct path forward.”
Unpacking DRIVE PILOT: SAE Level 3 Conditionally Automated Driving
What exactly does SAE Level 3 conditionally automated driving mean for the mercedes benz drive experience? DRIVE PILOT empowers drivers to temporarily disengage from the immediate driving task under specific conditions, allowing them to focus on secondary activities. When activated, the system unlocks functionalities on the vehicle’s central display that are typically restricted while driving, offering a new dimension of in-car experience.
On designated freeway segments with high traffic density, DRIVE PILOT can be engaged to assume dynamic driving tasks at speeds up to 40 mph. Activation is intuitive, through control buttons located on the steering wheel rim, positioned for easy thumb access. Once system availability is indicated and engaged by the driver, DRIVE PILOT takes command of speed and distance, seamlessly maintaining the vehicle within its lane. The system intelligently adapts to the route profile, traffic events, and road signs. Furthermore, it proactively responds to unexpected traffic scenarios, executing independent evasive maneuvers within the lane or initiating braking as needed.
In scenarios where the driver fails to regain control after escalating prompts and the expiration of a designated takeover period – potentially due to a medical emergency – DRIVE PILOT is engineered for safety. The system initiates a controlled deceleration, bringing the vehicle to a complete stop while simultaneously activating hazard warning lights. Upon stopping, the Mercedes-Benz emergency call system is automatically engaged, and doors are unlocked, ensuring accessibility for first responders.
Dimitris Psillakis, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA, highlights the customer-centric benefits: “We are immensely proud to extend our leadership in Level 3 conditionally automated driving and remain at the cutting edge of U.S. market innovation with this California certification. This transformative system underscores our commitment to leading in both safety and technology. It provides unparalleled convenience for our discerning customers, effectively giving them back valuable time while navigating today’s congested freeways safely within their mercedes benz drive.”
Redundancy: The Cornerstone of Safe Automated Driving
Mercedes-Benz prioritizes safety above all else in the deployment of such advanced systems. DRIVE PILOT builds upon the existing sensor suite of the Driver Assistance Package, augmenting it with additional sensors deemed crucial for safe conditionally automated driving. These enhancements include LiDAR, a rear window camera, microphones for detecting emergency vehicle sirens, and a road wetness sensor integrated into the wheel well.
Vehicles equipped with DRIVE PILOT further benefit from redundant steering and braking actuators, along with a redundant on-board electrical system. This triply redundant design ensures maneuverability and safe driver handover even in the event of a system failure, reinforcing the safety and reliability of the mercedes benz drive experience under automated control.
The Road Ahead: Expanding the Horizons of Mercedes-Benz Drive Technology
Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to advancing automated driving extends beyond current capabilities. The company is actively pursuing SAE Level 3 conditionally automated driving with a future target of operating at speeds up to 80 mph (130 km/h). Further advancements in sensor redundancy are integral to meeting Mercedes-Benz’s uncompromising safety standards at these higher speeds.
Strategic collaborations are central to this vision. Mercedes-Benz is partnering with technology leaders like NVIDIA and Luminar, complementing existing collaborations with other pioneering tech companies. This SAE Level 3 achievement signifies a monumental step forward for automated driving, and these partnerships will undoubtedly propel Mercedes-Benz’s ambitions for future innovations in the realm of the mercedes benz drive.
Note: SAE Level 3 automation requires the driver to be ready to take control when prompted by the vehicle. Permissible secondary activities are subject to national and local traffic regulations.
