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Mercedes-Benz has launched the Automatic Lane Change (ALC) feature for 15 models in 33 countries across Europe. This innovative function enhances convenience and safety by enabling vehicles to automatically change lanes, either from the factory or through an over-the-air update.
Key Highlights:
- Europe-wide rollout: Available for 15 models across 33 countries.
- Over-the-air updates: Approximately 200,000 cars can be updated remotely.
- Enhanced convenience: ALC aids in overtaking and navigating exits.
- Wide model availability: Applicable to C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, GLC, CLE, EQE, EQS, EQS SUV, and EQE SUV.
Mercedes-Benz continues to advance partially automated driving with the introduction of the Automatic Lane Change (ALC) feature in Europe. This function is now part of the Driving Assistance Plus Package and is accessible in 33 European countries. Fifteen models, including the C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, GLC, CLE, EQE, EQS, EQS SUV, and EQE SUV, can now be equipped with ALC, either directly from the factory or through an over-the-air update.
In addition to new car configurations, Mercedes-Benz offers the ALC function to around 200,000 existing vehicles across Europe. This new assistance feature will be available from September 2024 via an over-the-air update, utilizing the car’s mobile connection. The update applies to the E-Class, CLE Coupé and Cabriolet, C-Class, S-Class, GLC, EQE, and EQS models from modification year 23/1 onwards. Customers will receive notifications regarding regional availability and can initiate the update through the MBUX infotainment system or the Mercedes me App.
ALC Extends Existing Assistance Systems
The ALC function complements the over 40 existing driving assistance systems from Mercedes-Benz. When Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC is activated, ALC allows the vehicle to automatically change lanes on suitable motorways to overtake slower cars or follow the route to the next exit. Mercedes-Benz initially introduced this feature in North America in 2023, and it is also available in China, adapted to local traffic conditions and legal requirements.
“With the Automatic Lane Change function, Mercedes-Benz is once again demonstrating its innovative strength in the development of new driving assistance systems. We simultaneously developed the Automatic Lane Change function, or ALC for short, in North America, Europe, and China for our local customers. With ALC, Mercedes-Benz is offering a driving function as an over-the-air update for the first time.” — Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer
Operation and Functionality
The ALC system is designed to be user-friendly and intuitive. The driver sets the desired speed using adaptive cruise control (Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC). Active Steering Assist, which is standard, manages the automatic lane changes on the motorway. As a Level 2 system, the driver remains responsible for driving at all times.
Using radar sensors and cameras, the system continuously monitors the vehicle’s surroundings to overtake slower cars and return to the original lane. Additionally, ALC can navigate motorway junctions and exits when route guidance is active.
In Europe, ALC operates at speeds between 80 to 140 km/h, provided the vehicle is on a suitable motorway with at least two lanes and visible lane markings. The driver remains responsible for the vehicle, and all driving assistance systems from Mercedes-Benz serve as aids without relieving the driver of their duties.
Availability and Limitations
The availability of ALC depends on the specific market, vehicle model, and individual configurations. Customers should refer to the Owner’s Manual and the Mercedes me App for detailed information on system limitations and availability.
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