Mercedes-Benz becomes the first automaker to market certified Level 3 self-driving technology in the US, as per Top Speed.
The German automaker arrived at the CES 2023 with numerous technologies it plans to launch soon. However, the most exciting news it announced at the event was that the brand applied for the SAE Level 3 conditional autonomous driving status in California and Nevada.
Notably, Mercedes-Benz is the first automaker to obtain a globally recognized Level 3 conditional automated driving certification with the S-Class sedan starting in May 2022. However, it has only been offered in its homeland until 2023.
What is SAE Level 3?
SAE Level 3 enables the S-Class sedan to drive autonomously without any driver engagement in certain circumstances. These can be on ideal highway sections where there is high traffic.
Nonetheless, the Mercedes Drive Pilot system will continue to keep track of drivers’ attention using its in-car sensors and cameras.
Drive Pilot can travel up to 60 km/h and accelerate to 37 mph under the right circumstances. With this feature, drivers can relax or focus on other things without much attention on driving.
That said, the Mercedes Drive Pilot will surpass the SAE Level 2 certification of Tesla‘s FSD and General Motors‘ Super Cruise.
Nevada application approved
Remarkably, Mercedes’ SAE Level 3 conditional autonomous driving filing with the Nevada DMV has already been granted.
Now, the automaker expects to receive the same approval in California in the upcoming weeks.
Automatic Lane Change (ALC)
Mercedes will also offer the Automatic Lane Change (ALC) feature in North America in 2023. ALC allows Mercedes’ EVs to overtake slower-moving vehicles and immediately start a lane change. Additionally, it can automatically switch lanes as you approach exit ramps or highway intersections to help you follow the route advice.
DrivePilot and the ALC feature give drivers an improved semi-autonomous driving feature. However, they must still be alert and avoid sleeping as these technologies are still developing.
That said, Mercedes must take further measures to guarantee drivers’ awareness of its Level 3 automated driving limitations.
