Mercedes-Benz Plans ‘Eyes-Off’ Self-Driving Cars For Traffic Jams In The US

This week, during Mercedes-Benz’s 2021 results call, CEO Ola Kallenius unveiled the company’s plans to introduce Level 3 autonomous driving in the US.

Kallenius revealed the automaker had been conducting tests in the country while in discussion with the authorities, though no specifics have been released.

Autonomous driving can be categorized into six different levels, in accordance with a system by SAE International. Level zero would be a typical car.

Level one means hands-on control, while level two then allows for hands-off driving and level three enables drivers to take their eyes off the road. Level four autonomy would require no concentration, and level five represents full self-driving with no steering wheel required.

Mercedes is the first brand to receive clearance from German officials for its Level 3 (“eyes-off”)  self-driving system, named Drive Pilot. 

According to CNET, it’s said Drive Pilot can operate at speeds below 37 kph, and is allowed on certain highways during rush hour or traffic jams. 

The feature enables drivers to take their hands off the wheel and take part in “certain secondary activities,” such as checking emails or playing a mobile game.

Automotive News noted that Level 3 autonomous driving, despite its name, isn’t a full self-driving experience. While the driver can hand over control to the vehicle, he must be ready to take over at any time. 

Other brands looking to receive Level 3 certification include Honda and BMW, with the latter planning to introduce the technology on its 7 Series sedan this year.

For Mercedes, Drive Pilot will be available on its flagship S-Class sedan in Germany by the first half of 2022, and will feature on its upcoming all-electric EQS. 

[via CNET and Automotive News, cover image via Mercedes-Benz]