Mercedes-Benz has achieved a groundbreaking milestone, becoming the first automaker to secure U.S. state approval for deploying a SAE Level 3 conditionally automated driving system. DRIVE PILOT, Mercedes-Benz’s cutting-edge technology, empowers the vehicle to manage the dynamic driving tasks under specific conditions, granting drivers the freedom to engage in other activities. The highly anticipated production-ready version of DRIVE PILOT is set to debut on roads in California and Nevada in late 2023, featured in a limited fleet of Level 3 equipped EQS Sedans. Mercedes-Benz plans to expand customer availability of DRIVE PILOT to MY2024 EQS Sedan and S-Class models in early 2024 through authorized dealerships in these states. This innovative system will be accessible via subscription through the U.S. Mercedes me connect store for compatible S-Class and EQS Sedan models.
Mercedes-Benz is pioneering the introduction of conditionally automated driving to U.S. customers with the launch of DRIVE PILOT in late 2023. Initially available in California and Nevada with a limited “DRIVE PILOT: First Class” fleet of EQS Sedans, this SAE Level 3 system marks a significant leap in automotive technology. By early 2024, Mercedes-Benz intends to broaden its reach, offering DRIVE PILOT on MY2024 EQS Sedan and S-Class models through participating dealerships across these states.
As the first global automotive manufacturer to bring this sophisticated system to standard production vehicles for U.S. consumers, Mercedes-Benz reaffirms its position at the forefront of automated driving advancements. California and Nevada have taken the lead as the first states to authorize the system, granting certification for its use on major freeways. While regulatory frameworks are state-specific, Mercedes-Benz is committed to extending the availability of this revolutionary technology to additional U.S. markets in the future, solidifying its commitment to Benz Self Driving innovation.
“DRIVE PILOT is the world’s first and only system for conditionally automated driving with internationally valid type approval. It is engineered with a sophisticated system architecture based on redundancy with many different sensor types. I strongly believe that redundancy is key for safe automated driving for level 3 and beyond. Safety is one of Mercedes-Benz core values. Responsible handling of this technology is our top priority and the key to acceptance among customers and in society.”
Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes‑Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer, responsible for Development and Procurement.
“DRIVE PILOT is a technological game changer and incredible leap forward in the pursuit of conditionally automated driving. This ground-breaking system reinforces our intention to lead in safety and technology, while giving precious time back to our customers during heavy traffic situations.”
Dimitris Psillakis, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA
Understanding DRIVE PILOT: Mercedes-Benz’s Level 3 Self-Driving System
DRIVE PILOT represents a significant advancement in vehicle automation, classified as an SAE Level 3 system for conditionally automated driving. This innovative technology allows the Mercedes-Benz vehicle to assume dynamic driving tasks at speeds up to 40 mph on suitable freeway sections, particularly in high-density traffic situations. Once engaged by the driver, DRIVE PILOT takes command of speed and distance, smoothly maintaining the vehicle within its lane. A key feature of this system is the enablement of certain applications on the vehicle’s central display during conditionally automated driving, functionalities that are typically restricted while the driver is actively engaged in driving. This allows for productive or relaxing use of travel time when the system is active.
Prioritizing Safety in Benz Self Driving Technology
Safety is paramount in Mercedes-Benz’s DRIVE PILOT innovation. The system is engineered with a strong emphasis on operational reliability, building upon the robust vehicle sensing technology already present in the Driver Assistance Package. DRIVE PILOT incorporates additional, critical sensors deemed essential for safe conditionally automated driving. These include:
- LiDAR: Providing precise environmental mapping and object detection.
- Rear Window Camera: Enhancing awareness of rear surroundings.
- Microphones: Detecting emergency vehicle sirens, ensuring timely responses to critical situations.
- Road Wetness Sensor (Wheel Well): Adapting system performance to road conditions.
Furthermore, vehicles equipped with DRIVE PILOT feature redundant steering and braking actuators, along with a redundant on-board electrical system. These redundancies are crucial for maintaining vehicle maneuverability and control even in the event of a system failure, ensuring a safe and seamless handover back to the driver when necessary.
Accessing DRIVE PILOT: Subscription and Availability
DRIVE PILOT will be available on select Mercedes-Benz EQS and S-Class models and activated through the U.S. Mercedes me connect store. The initial activation cost is set at $2,500, with further subscription options to be announced. This subscription-based model is designed to provide flexibility, acknowledging the evolving nature of software integration and the varying availability of Level 3 enabled freeways across different regions. For instance, customers relocating to areas without compatible freeways can choose not to renew their subscription, optimizing their costs and experience with benz self driving features.
The High-Precision Technology Powering Benz Self Driving
The operational accuracy of DRIVE PILOT hinges on a high-precision positioning system, far exceeding the capabilities of conventional GPS. This system pinpoints the Mercedes-Benz vehicle’s location with inch-level accuracy. Complementing this, a digital HD map provides a detailed three-dimensional representation of the road and its surroundings, utilizing anonymized data from LiDAR, cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors. This HD map is enriched with information on road geometry, route characteristics, traffic signs, and real-time traffic events like accidents or construction zones. Constantly updated through backend data centers, this map data is also stored onboard each vehicle, ensuring continuous comparison and local dataset updates for optimal DRIVE PILOT performance.
Future Considerations for Benz Self Driving and Regulatory Landscape
Mercedes-Benz is proactively integrating social and ethical considerations into the advancement of automated driving. To enhance transparency and awareness, Mercedes-Benz has developed distinctive turquoise-colored Automated Driving Marker Lights (based on SAE J3134 Recommended Practice). These lights visually indicate when DRIVE PILOT is active, informing other road users about the vehicle’s automated status. While a national regulatory framework for this technology is still evolving in the U.S., Mercedes-Benz is actively engaged in discussions with state and federal agencies to adapt and align DRIVE PILOT’s system architecture with emerging standards. This proactive approach underscores Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to responsible and legally compliant deployment of benz self driving technology.
Mercedes-Benz emphasizes legal compliance for all new technologies introduced on public roads. A dedicated interdisciplinary team, encompassing technical, legal, ethical, certification, and safety experts, collaborates to translate traffic regulations into robust software for DRIVE PILOT. Mercedes-Benz adheres to the NHTSA Standing General Order governing ADS-equipped vehicles, ensuring the highest standards of safety and regulatory compliance in its pursuit of benz self driving innovation.
About Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), headquartered in Atlanta, manages the distribution, marketing, and customer service for all Mercedes-Benz products across the United States. MBUSA offers a diverse luxury vehicle lineup, spanning 18 model lines from the GLA SUV to the flagship S-Class and the all-electric Mercedes-EQ family. MBUSA also oversees Mercedes-Benz Vans in the U.S. For more information, please visit www.mbusa.com and www.mbvans.com.
1 SAE Level 3: The automated driving function manages specific driving tasks, but the driver must be prepared to regain vehicle control upon request.
2 Legally permissible secondary activities for the driver are determined by respective national or state traffic regulations.
