Mercedes-Benz has achieved a groundbreaking milestone, becoming the world’s first automaker to receive certification for SAE Level 3 conditionally automated driving in the United States. Nevada has officially validated the compliance of the revolutionary Mercedes-Benz DRIVE PILOT system with state regulations, marking a paradigm shift in automotive technology. This landmark achievement distinguishes DRIVE PILOT as the premier and exclusive SAE Level 3 system authorized for use in a standard-production vehicle on U.S. public freeways. Meeting the stringent requirements outlined in Nevada Chapter 482A for Autonomous Vehicles, DRIVE PILOT empowers drivers to relinquish dynamic driving tasks to the vehicle under specific, pre-defined conditions. Mercedes-Benz is ambitiously pursuing expansion into California later this year, having already submitted the necessary certification documents to state authorities. DRIVE PILOT is set to debut in the U.S. market as an optional feature for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and EQS Sedan models, with initial deliveries to customers commencing in the latter half of 2023.
Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer, responsible for Development and Procurement, emphasizes the significance of this innovation: “In today’s fast-paced world, time is an invaluable asset, and our mission is to give our customers more of it. DRIVE PILOT represents a monumental leap in realizing this vision, positioning us at the forefront of innovation in the critical domain of automated driving. This certification in Nevada signals the commencement of its global deployment and heralds a new era in driving.”
DRIVE PILOT is designed for operation on suitable freeway segments experiencing high traffic density. Under such conditions, the system can be engaged to assume control of the dynamic driving task at speeds up to 40 mph. Activation is facilitated by conveniently located control buttons integrated into the steering wheel rim, positioned for easy thumb access. Once the system deems conditions appropriate, availability is indicated via these control buttons. Upon driver activation, DRIVE PILOT seamlessly manages speed, distance, and lane-keeping. It intelligently incorporates route profiles, traffic events, and traffic signs into its operational parameters. Furthermore, the system exhibits proactive responsiveness to unexpected traffic scenarios, autonomously executing evasive maneuvers within the lane or initiating braking as needed.
Dimitris Psillakis, President and CEO of MBUSA, proudly states, “Mercedes-Benz has been driven by an unwavering commitment to innovation since its inception. It is with immense pride that we continue this legacy and celebrate this historic achievement as the first automotive company to achieve certification for Level 3 conditionally automated driving in the U.S. market.”
Safety and Redundancy: Cornerstones of DRIVE PILOT
Mercedes-Benz prioritizes safety above all else when introducing advanced systems like DRIVE PILOT, demanding exceptional operational reliability. DRIVE PILOT builds upon the comprehensive sensor suite of the Driving Assistance Package, incorporating additional sensors deemed essential for safe conditionally automated driving. These critical additions include LiDAR, a rear window camera, microphones for emergency vehicle detection, and a road wetness sensor integrated into the wheel well. Vehicles equipped with the optional DRIVE PILOT system also feature redundant steering and braking actuators, along with a redundant on-board electrical system. This redundancy ensures continued maneuverability and facilitates a safe handover back to the driver even in the event of a system malfunction.
In critical situations where the driver fails to regain control despite escalating prompts and the expiration of a designated takeover period (potentially due to a medical emergency), DRIVE PILOT initiates a controlled emergency stop. The vehicle is decelerated to a standstill while simultaneously activating hazard warning lights. Upon complete stop, the Mercedes-Benz emergency call system is automatically engaged, and the doors are unlocked to provide first responders with immediate access.
High-Precision Positioning: The Foundation of Accuracy
DRIVE PILOT’s precise location awareness is achieved through a high-precision positioning system far exceeding the capabilities of conventional GPS. Complementing anonymized data streams from LiDAR, camera, radar, and ultrasound sensors, a digital HD map provides a detailed three-dimensional representation of the road and its surroundings. This map encompasses road geometry, route characteristics, traffic signs, and real-time traffic event information such as accidents or roadwork. This dynamic data is continuously updated via a robust backend connection.
This high-precision map distinguishes itself from standard navigation maps through its centimeter-level accuracy, compared to meter-level accuracy, and its highly detailed junction and route models. Map data is securely stored in backend data centers and undergoes constant updates. Each DRIVE PILOT-equipped vehicle also maintains an onboard copy of this map information, enabling continuous comparison with backend data and local dataset updates as required. This sophisticated system ensures stable and accurate positioning, independent of external factors like shadows or sensor obstruction.
At the heart of DRIVE PILOT is a powerful chipset within the central control unit, executing the complex software functions necessary for conditionally automated driving. Critical algorithms are processed redundantly within a state-of-the-art security architecture, further enhancing system reliability.
Unlocking Time: Conditionally Automated Driving on Freeways
During conditionally automated journeys, DRIVE PILOT offers drivers the valuable opportunity to disengage from the immediate demands of driving and engage in permitted secondary activities. When DRIVE PILOT is active, certain applications on the vehicle’s integrated central display, typically restricted during driving, become accessible. This newfound freedom allows for productive use of travel time or simply a more relaxed and enjoyable journey.
Mercedes-Benz DRIVE PILOT initially debuted in Germany in May 2022, establishing itself as the world’s first SAE Level 3 system to meet the rigorous legal standards of UNR157. The German Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) granted initial system approval based on UN-R157 regulations, paving the way for DRIVE PILOT’s international rollout in jurisdictions where legislation permits.
About Mercedes-Benz USA
Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, is responsible for the distribution, marketing and customer service for all Mercedes-Benz products in the United States. MBUSA offers drivers the most diverse lineup in the luxury segment with 15 model lines ranging from the sporty GLA SUV to the flagship S-Class and the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series. MBUSA is also responsible for Mercedes-Benz Vans in the U.S. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found at www.mbusa.com and www.mbvans.com.
- SAE Level 3: The automated driving function assumes control of specific driving tasks. However, driver readiness to intervene remains mandatory at all times when prompted by the vehicle.
- Legally permissible secondary activities for the driver are determined by respective national road traffic regulations.
- ECE contracting states (57) include EU member states, GB, Japan, Korea, and Australia.
