Mercedes-Benz is making history as the first automaker to receive state approval in the U.S. for deploying a SAE Level 3 conditionally automated driving system, known as Mercedes Drive Pilot. This groundbreaking technology allows drivers to relinquish control of the vehicle under specific conditions, marking a significant leap forward in automotive innovation and redefining the driving experience.
The production-ready version of Mercedes Drive Pilot is set to debut on roads in California and Nevada in late 2023 with a limited fleet of EQS Sedans equipped with Level 3 capabilities, aptly named DRIVE PILOT: First Class. Mercedes-Benz plans to expand customer deliveries of DRIVE PILOT-equipped MY2024 EQS Sedan and S-Class models in early 2024 through participating authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers in these states.
This landmark achievement positions Mercedes-Benz as a global leader in automated driving technology, bringing this sophisticated system to U.S. customers in a standard-production vehicle for the first time. California and Nevada have emerged as pioneers in regulatory approval, certifying Mercedes Drive Pilot for use on major freeways within their jurisdictions. While the regulatory landscape varies across states, Mercedes-Benz is committed to expanding the availability of this revolutionary technology to additional U.S. markets in the future.
Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG and Chief Technology Officer, emphasizes the significance of Mercedes Drive Pilot: “DRIVE PILOT is the world’s first and only system for conditionally automated driving with internationally valid type approval. Its sophisticated system architecture, built on redundancy with diverse sensor types, underscores our commitment to safety. Redundancy is paramount for safe Level 3 and beyond automated driving. At Mercedes-Benz, safety is a core value, and responsible technology handling is our priority for customer and societal acceptance.”
Dimitris Psillakis, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA, highlights the transformative nature of Mercedes Drive Pilot: “DRIVE PILOT is a technological game changer, representing an incredible leap towards conditionally automated driving. This groundbreaking system reinforces our leadership in safety and technology, while offering our customers the invaluable gift of time back during congested traffic scenarios.”
Understanding Mercedes Drive Pilot: SAE Level 3 Conditionally Automated Driving
Mercedes Drive Pilot operates as a SAE Level 3 system, meaning it can manage the dynamic driving task under specific parameters, relieving the driver of constant vigilance. Activated on suitable freeway sections at speeds up to 40 mph in high-density traffic, Mercedes Drive Pilot takes control of speed and distance, seamlessly keeping the vehicle within its lane.
During conditionally automated driving with Mercedes Drive Pilot, drivers can engage in “secondary activities” on the vehicle’s central display that are typically restricted while driving. This newfound freedom allows for productive use of time or simply relaxation during commutes.
Safety remains paramount in the design of Mercedes Drive Pilot. It builds upon the advanced sensor technology of the Mercedes-Benz Driver Assistance Package, incorporating additional critical components for safe conditionally automated driving. These include LiDAR, a rear window camera, microphones to detect emergency vehicles, and a road wetness sensor in the wheel well. Vehicles equipped with Mercedes Drive Pilot also feature redundant steering and braking actuators and a redundant on-board electrical system. These redundancies are crucial for maintaining maneuverability and ensuring a safe transition back to driver control if necessary.
Accessing Mercedes Drive Pilot: Subscription and Activation
Mercedes Drive Pilot will be available on select EQS and S-Class models through the U.S. Mercedes me connect store, initially offered via a subscription model starting at $2,500. This activation protocol is designed to ensure customers are fully informed about the system’s capabilities at the point of Level 3 activation.
The subscription-based approach provides flexibility, allowing customers to tailor their choices to individual needs. For instance, if a customer relocates to an area without Level 3-enabled freeways, they can choose not to renew the subscription. Further details regarding additional subscription options will be announced in the future.
The Technology Behind Mercedes Drive Pilot: High-Precision and Redundancy
Mercedes Drive Pilot relies on a high-precision positioning system, far more advanced than conventional GPS, capable of pinpointing the vehicle’s location within inches. This accuracy is essential for safe and reliable operation.
In conjunction with anonymized data from LiDAR, cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors, Mercedes Drive Pilot utilizes a digital HD map providing a comprehensive three-dimensional representation of the road and surroundings. This map data encompasses road geometry, route characteristics, traffic signs, and real-time traffic events like accidents or construction zones. Continuously updated via backend data centers, this HD map information is also stored onboard each vehicle, ensuring constant comparison and local dataset updates.
Future Considerations and Regulatory Landscape
Mercedes-Benz is committed to responsible development of automated driving, integrating social and ethical considerations. To visually indicate when Mercedes Drive Pilot is active, Mercedes-Benz has developed special turquoise-colored Automated Driving Marker Lights, based on SAE J3134 Recommended Practice. While there is currently no national regulatory framework in the U.S. for this technology, Mercedes-Benz is actively engaged in discussions with state and federal agencies to adapt and evolve Mercedes Drive Pilot in accordance with emerging standards.
Legally Compliant and Road-Ready
Mercedes-Benz prioritizes regulatory compliance for all new technologies deployed on public roads. A dedicated interdisciplinary team of experts ensured that Mercedes Drive Pilot adheres to all relevant traffic regulations, translating them into sophisticated software. Mercedes-Benz operates in full compliance with the NHTSA Standing General Order governing ADS-equipped vehicles.
Mercedes Drive Pilot represents not just a technological achievement, but a commitment to a safer, more convenient, and more enjoyable driving future. As it rolls out in California and Nevada, it sets a new benchmark for conditionally automated driving and reaffirms Mercedes-Benz’s position at the forefront of automotive innovation.
About Mercedes-Benz
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 line-up in the luxury segment with 18 model lines ranging from the sporty GLA SUV to the flagship S-Class and the dynamic all-electric Mercedes-EQ family. 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.
1 SAE Level 3: The automated driving function takes over certain driving tasks. However, the driver must be ready to take control of the vehicle at all times when prompted to intervene by the vehicle.
2 Which secondary activities of the driver are legally permissible depends on the respective national or state road traffic regulations.
