Mercedes-Benz has received approval from the German Federal Motor Transport Authority for its updated Drive Pilot system, marking a significant step towards its 2025 release in Germany.
The latest version of Drive Pilot allows for automated driving up to 95kph on Germany’s entire 13,191km Autobahn network under specific conditions.
This system is the fastest certified SAE-Level 3 conditionally automated driving technology in a standard production vehicle.
In Level 3 autonomous driving, the automated driving function takes over certain driving tasks. However, a driver is still required. The driver must be ready to take control of the vehicle at all times when prompted to intervene by the vehicle.
Initially available for the S-Class and EQS luxury sedans, Drive Pilot will be priced at €5,950 (RM28,000), with existing vehicles receiving the update for free through over-the-air updates or at service centres.
While the system is active, drivers can engage in activities such as watching movies or reading, as the car handles the driving task.
Mercedes-Benz prioritizes safety with a redundant system design, incorporating over 35 sensors, including LiDAR, to ensure accurate environment detection and safe operation. If the driver does not respond to takeover prompts, the system will safely bring the vehicle to a stop.
The company plans further development to allow for higher speeds and longer automated driving durations.
By the end of the decade, Mercedes-Benz aims to enable automated driving at speeds up to 130kph.
Additionally, the automaker is introducing turquoise lights to indicate when Drive Pilot is active, enhancing public awareness and acceptance of the technology.
Though not yet approved in Germany, these “Automated Driving Marker Lights” have received positive feedback in the US, where they are already being tested.
