BERLIN (Reuters) – Mercedes-Benz announced that its cars with the automated driving system will drive autonomously at speeds up to 95 kilometers per hour. This feature will operate under specific conditions on German motorways. Moreover, Mercedes-Benz autonomous driving aims to improve safety and efficiency for all road users. #MercedesBenzAutonomousDriving
Mercedes announced that sales of the DRIVE PILOT system will begin next year. This follows certification by Germany’s motor transport authority, expected by late 2024.
The car can take over driving when another vehicle is in front and visibility is clear. This feature allows drivers to relax but requires them to be ready to take control within seconds.
Existing Mercedes cars equipped with the technology will be upgraded from a current 60 kph free of charge.
The auto industry has defined five levels of autonomous driving, from cruise control at level one to fully self-driving cars at level five. Mercedes cars will operate at level 3 in Germany under the new system.
Mercedes has installed a turquoise light on the front of cars to indicate when the automated driving system is enabled. This color aims to become a standard notification for other drivers.
Its aim is to increase the speed under which the system can be used to 130 kph, though it did not provide a timeline.
It has carried out tests for the Level 3 system in Beijing and received approval to use it on designated highways in two U.S. states, California and Nevada.
While China was very “safety-conscious” and looking in detail at data, Mercedes CTO Markus Schaefer said he expected Level 3 systems to be approved there for wider use “very quickly” and for the market to then expand at high speed.
“We know how quickly the market moves in China,” he said.
Paving the Way for Future Innovations in Autonomous Driving
Furthermore, regulatory approvals play a crucial role in this endeavor. Mercedes-Benz is actively collaborating with government authorities to establish clear guidelines for autonomous driving. Ultimately, the success of Mercedes-Benz autonomous driving on autobahns could set a benchmark for other automakers in the industry. #MercedesBenzAutonomousDriving
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