Mercedes-benz Drive Pilot: The First Level 3 Autonomous System In The States

Mercedes-Benz has announced that it will launch its production-ready version of Drive Pilot, the world's first certified SAE Level 3 autonomous system for conditionally automated driving, in the United States. The system will debut in late 2023 with a limited fleet of EQS sedans in California and Nevada. It will be available for customer deliveries of Mercedes-Benz EQS and S-Class models in early 2024. Drive Pilot will allow drivers to take their hands off the wheel and their feet off the pedals for long stretches of time on mapped highways while still requiring them to pay attention to the road and be ready to resume control when prompted.

What is SAE Level 3?

SAE Level 3, or conditional automation, is a mode of driving in which the vehicle performs all aspects of the dynamic driving task, such as steering, braking, accelerating, and changing lanes, under certain conditions and environments. The driver does not need to monitor the vehicle constantly but must remain alert and able to intervene when the system requests it. This is different from SAE Level 2, or partial automation, in which the driver must keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road at all times, even when the vehicle assists with some driving functions. SAE Level 3 is also not the same as SAE Level 4, or high automation, in which the vehicle can handle all driving tasks without human intervention, but only in specific areas or situations.

How does the Mercedes-Benz Drive Pilot work?

Mercedes-Benz Drive Pilot is based on a sophisticated system architecture that uses multiple sensors, cameras, radars, and lidars to monitor the vehicle's surroundings and the driver's state. The system can be activated by pressing a button on the steering wheel when the vehicle is on a suitable section of the freeway, where there are no pedestrians, cyclists, or intersections, and the traffic is below 60 mph. The system will then take over the dynamic driving task, while the driver can relax and engage in other activities, such as browsing the internet, watching videos, or making phone calls, on the 12.8-inch OLED media display. The system will also use active ambient lighting to communicate with the driver, such as changing colors to indicate the system status or flashing to warn of potential hazards.

The driver must still remain in the driver's seat, wear the seat belt, and be ready to resume control when the system requests it. The system will monitor the driver's attention level using a camera and an infrared sensor on the steering column and will issue visual, audible, and haptic alerts if the driver is not paying attention or is not responsive. The system will also prompt the driver to take over when the vehicle approaches the end of the mapped highway, when the traffic speed exceeds 60 mph, when the weather conditions deteriorate, or when there is an emergency situation. If the driver fails to respond to the takeover request, the system will bring the vehicle to a safe stop on the shoulder and activate the hazard lights.

What are the benefits of Drive Pilot?

Mercedes-Benz Drive Pilot is designed to enhance driving safety, comfort, and convenience, especially in heavy traffic or congestion situations. The system can reduce the driver's workload and stress while increasing their well-being and productivity. The system can also improve the efficiency and sustainability of driving by optimizing the vehicle's speed, acceleration, and braking and using the plug-in hybrid or electric powertrain of the Mercedes-Benz EQS and Mercedes-Benz S-Class models. Drive Pilot is also a milestone in the development of automated driving technology and a stepping stone toward higher levels of automation in the future.

How can customers get Drive Pilot?

Mercedes-Benz Drive Pilot will be offered as a subscription service through the U.S. Mercedes I Connect store for S-Class and Mercedes-Benz EQS sedan models. The subscription fee will be $2500 per year, including access to the latest software updates and map data. Customers will also need to have the Driver Assistance Package Plus, which includes features such as active steering assist, lane change assist, brake assist, and blind spot assist. The subscription service will initially be available in California and Nevada, where the system has received state approval and certification. Mercedes-Benz plans to expand the availability of Drive Pilot to other U.S. markets in the future, depending on the regulatory framework and customer demand.

Drive Pilot is a groundbreaking system that demonstrates Mercedes-Benz's leadership and innovation in automated driving and safety technologies. It is the first system of its kind to be offered to U.S. customers, and it will provide a new level of driving experience and satisfaction. Drive Pilot is the ultimate expression of the Mercedes-Benz brand philosophy: Cares for what matters. @via Panorica.