Mercedes-Benz is making headlines as the first automaker to secure state approval in the U.S. for a conditionally automated driving system, SAE Level 3. Their groundbreaking technology, DRIVE PILOT, is set to redefine the driving experience by handling the dynamic driving tasks under specific conditions, allowing drivers to engage in other activities.
The production-ready DRIVE PILOT will first grace the roads of California and Nevada in late 2023 with a limited fleet of EQS Sedans equipped with Level 3 capabilities, branded as DRIVE PILOT: First Class. Mercedes-Benz plans to expand customer availability in early 2024, offering DRIVE PILOT in MY2024 EQS Sedan and S-Class models through authorized dealerships in these pioneering states.
This landmark achievement positions Mercedes-Benz as a global leader in automotive innovation, particularly in the realm of autonomous driving. California and Nevada have taken the lead in regulatory approval for this technology on major freeways, paving the way for Mercedes-Benz to potentially extend DRIVE PILOT’s availability to other U.S. states in the future, as regulatory landscapes evolve.
Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, emphasized the significance of this milestone: “DRIVE PILOT is the world’s first and only system for conditionally automated driving with internationally valid type approval. Its sophisticated architecture, built on redundancy across various sensor types, underscores our commitment to safety – a core Mercedes-Benz value. We believe redundancy is paramount for safe Level 3 and beyond autonomous driving, and responsible technology handling is key to earning customer and societal trust.”
Dimitris Psillakis, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA, echoed this sentiment, stating, “DRIVE PILOT represents a technological leap forward, a true game changer in conditionally automated driving. This pioneering system reinforces our dedication to leadership in both safety and technology, while offering our customers the invaluable gift of time back during congested commutes.”
Understanding DRIVE PILOT: Level 3 Conditionally Automated Driving
DRIVE PILOT is an advanced system enabling conditional automation, taking charge of driving tasks at speeds up to 40 mph on suitable freeway sections amidst dense traffic. Once engaged, the system manages speed and distance, maintaining lane position effortlessly. A key benefit during DRIVE PILOT operation is the ability for drivers to utilize certain infotainment applications on the central display, typically restricted while manually driving, enhancing the in-car experience.
Mercedes-Benz prioritizes safety in this innovation, demanding exceptional operational reliability. DRIVE PILOT leverages existing Driver Assistance Package sensors, augmented by critical additions for safe conditional automation. These enhancements include LiDAR, a rear window camera, microphones to detect emergency vehicle sirens, and a road wetness sensor in the wheel well. Furthermore, DRIVE PILOT-equipped vehicles feature redundant steering and braking actuators, along with a redundant electrical system. These redundancies are crucial for maintaining vehicle control and ensuring a secure transition back to manual driving if necessary.
DRIVE PILOT will be available on select EQS and S-Class models via subscription through the Mercedes me connect store in the U.S., starting at $2,500, with additional options to be announced. This subscription model allows customers to fully understand the system’s capabilities at activation and offers flexibility, especially for those in areas where Level 3 freeways are not consistently accessible.
Precision Positioning: The Foundation of DRIVE PILOT
DRIVE PILOT’s functionality relies on an exceptionally precise positioning system, far exceeding standard GPS accuracy. It pinpoints the Mercedes-Benz vehicle’s location within inches. Complementing anonymized data from LiDAR, cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors, a digital HD map provides a detailed 3D representation of the road and surroundings. This map encompasses road geometry, route characteristics, traffic signs, and real-time traffic events like accidents or construction. Continuously updated via backend data centers, this HD map information is also stored onboard each vehicle, ensuring constant comparison and local dataset updates for optimal performance.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Mercedes-Benz Autonomous Cars
Mercedes-Benz is committed to integrating societal and ethical considerations into autonomous driving development. To enhance transparency, they have developed turquoise-colored Automated Driving Marker Lights (SAE J3134 standard) to visually indicate when DRIVE PILOT is active. While a national regulatory framework for this technology is still developing in the U.S., Mercedes-Benz is actively engaged in discussions with state and federal agencies to adapt DRIVE PILOT’s system architecture in accordance with evolving standards.
Mercedes-Benz underscores its commitment to legal compliance, ensuring all new technologies meet regulatory requirements. A dedicated interdisciplinary team, encompassing technical, legal, ethical, and safety experts, collaborated to translate traffic regulations into DRIVE PILOT’s software. Mercedes-Benz adheres to NHTSA guidelines governing ADS-equipped vehicles, ensuring responsible and legally sound deployment of this groundbreaking autonomous driving technology.
Mercedes-Benz’s DRIVE PILOT system marks a pivotal moment in the journey towards autonomous driving, offering a glimpse into a future where driving is safer, more convenient, and seamlessly integrated into our daily lives. As the regulatory landscape evolves and technology advances, Mercedes-Benz remains at the forefront, driving the future of mobility.
