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Mercedes-Benz has received approval from the German Federal Motor Transport Authority for its updated Level 3 autonomous driving system, DRIVE PILOT, enabling operation at speeds up to 95 km/h. The update, which will be rolled out in early 2025, marks a milestone for conditionally automated driving technology.
Key Highlights:
- DRIVE PILOT is the fastest certified Level 3 system in standard production vehicles.
- The update will be free of charge for existing DRIVE PILOT customers.
- The system is available on the S-Class and EQS luxury models.
- No hardware changes are required, and updates can be done over-the-air or at workshops.
- Approved for use across the 13,191 km-long German Autobahn network.
“With innovative technologies from Mercedes‑Benz, we always want to offer our customers added value. When DRIVE PILOT is activated, it is possible to concentrate on other things while the car takes over the driving task. With the further developed version, which has now been certified by Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority, this is also possible at 95 km/h in Germany under certain conditions,” said Markus Schäfer, Chief Technology Officer, Mercedes-Benz Group AG.
Enhanced Safety and Redundant Systems
Safety remains a top priority with this update. DRIVE PILOT operates with redundant system architecture, meaning critical functions like steering, braking, and power supply are duplicated. The system uses a combination of 35+ sensors, including LiDAR, cameras, radars, and ultrasonic sensors, ensuring precise real-time environment detection.
If a driver fails to take control when prompted, DRIVE PILOT will safely stop the vehicle and activate hazard lights. Additionally, a digital map and advanced positioning technology allow the vehicle to determine its exact lane position within centimeters.
A Glimpse into the Future of Autonomous Driving
Mercedes-Benz aims to expand automated driving capabilities by targeting higher speeds and longer intervention-free driving. While German law currently permits Level 3 driving up to 130 km/h, Mercedes-Benz plans to reach this limit by the end of the decade.
Another significant development includes the introduction of “Automated Driving Marker Lights”—turquoise external lights that indicate DRIVE PILOT’s active status. Though not yet approved in Germany, the lights have been positively received during tests in the U.S., particularly in California and Nevada.
Mercedes-Benz remains committed to advancing safe, efficient, and user-friendly autonomous driving solutions, setting a global benchmark in automated driving technology.
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