MercedesPhoto byMatheus BardemakeronUnsplash

Mercedes-Benz announced the next iteration of its DRIVE PILOT system. Further, it has designed for conditionally automated driving (SAE-Level 3), to be rolled out in Germany. The upgraded system can now follow vehicles on motorways at speeds of up to 95 km/h. Further, offering significant improvements in user convenience. The re-certification process by Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority is expected to be completed by the end of 2024.

Moreover, sales are anticipated to commence in early 2025. Moreover, even with these enhancements, the starting price for DRIVE PILOT remains unchanged at 5,950 euros (including VAT). Additionally, current owners of DRIVE PILOT-equipped vehicles will be eligible for a free upgrade. Especially, available via over-the-air (OTA) updates or through a workshop visit, depending on the model.

Mercedes-Benz DRIVE PILOT – A Leap Forward in Automated Driving Technology

According to the CTO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG Markus Schäfer, Mercedes is at the forefront of the development of automated driving with the latest version of DRIVE PILOT. Moreover, the new DRIVE PILOT version, Mercedes-Benz is reassures its leadership in the field of automated driving. “Within the next few years, it will be possible to engage conditionally automated driving up to a speed of 95 km/h in non-stationary traffic regime on the German motorways under certain conditions,” Schäfer stressed.

With this advancement, Mercedes-Benz becomes the foremost automaker to deliver a Level 3 automated driving system at this speed in a series-production vehicle to enhance clients’ effective use of their time on the road.

Enhanced Speed Brings Greater Customer Benefits

Expanding Usage Scenarios in DRIVE PILOT

The recent upgrade of DRIVE PILOT to allow a maximum speed of 95 km/h unlocks more application scenarios for consumers. This means that the system can operate in flowing traffic in the right lane of the motorways, even if it was unable to do so in heavy traffic and traffic jams. As a result of this upgrade, passengers can comfortably surrender control of the vehicle to the system, and perform other tasks such as working, browsing the internet or watching media content comprised through RIDEVU developed by Sony Pictures Entertainment available in selected Mercedes-Benz automobiles.

Redundant Architecture for Enhanced Safety

Safety remains a top priority with DRIVE PILOT, which utilizes a redundant system architecture. Critical systems like steering, braking, and the electrical system are backed up to ensure continued operability in the event of a failure. The system relies on a combination of cameras, radar, ultrasonic sensors, and LiDAR to process environmental data in real time. The vehicle’s high-precision positioning system, along with an updated HD map, allows the car to determine its exact location with centimeter-level accuracy, ensuring safe operation.

Mercedes-Benz DRIVE PILOT – The Future of Automated Driving

Path to Higher Speeds and Legal Frameworks

Mercedes-Benz is advancing automated driving technology. In particular, further plans to raise the outlook for conditionally autonomous vehicles’ top cruising speed to 130 kmh in Germany. It is adopting a gradual strategy to minimize risks associated with these inventions, targeting to accomplish this by the end of the current decade.

Mercedes-Benz DRIVE PILOT- Ethical and Social Considerations of

In addition to technical advancements, Mercedes-Benz is addressing social and ethical considerations related to automated driving. The turquoise marker lights are being introduced on the vehicles equipped with DRIVE PILOT. Further, it signals other users on the road when the system is active. This feature has received dispensations for use in the U.S. states of Nevada and California only. Especially, where testing has produced certain benefits. However, Germany has not yet legislatively regulated the concept of legal aspects denoted by the visual indicators.
Over time, Mercedes-Benz intends to continue updating the DRIVE PILOT system to meet changing legal conditions. In addition, efforts ensure continued compliance and advance the technologies behind automated driving systems.