Before we dive into the details, it’s important to note that there is currently no such thing as a fully self-driving car.
The levels of car autonomy are categorized from Level 0 to Level 5, with Level 5 being full autonomy where no driver intervention is required. So far, no car has surpassed Level 2. Even systems like General Motors’ Super Cruise and Ford’s BlueCruise, which are considered Level 2, still require the driver to pay attention and be ready to take over at any moment. Tesla’s Autopilot is also Level 2, but it requires less driver attention compared to other systems.
Mercedes Drive Pilot is the first Level 3 autonomous driving system available. What sets it apart is that it no longer requires the driver to pay attention. Instead, the driver can use the car’s central touchscreen to watch videos, play games, or browse the internet while the car handles the driving. While using your phone is still illegal under California and Nevada law, reading printed materials like books and magazines might be permissible under the “distracted driving” category.
However, Drive Pilot is not capable of fully autonomous driving. It can only be used on specific highways and freeways that have been mapped in high-definition.
It is limited to operating speeds up to 40 mph and does not work at night, in tunnels, or in inclement weather conditions. Additionally, Drive Pilot can only be used and purchased in Las Vegas and major metropolitan areas of California, as these are the only places where Level 3 autonomous driving has been authorized.
To engage Drive Pilot, the driver must first activate the Distronic adaptive cruise control system, which is the Level 2 system found in other Mercedes S-Class and EQS sedans. Distronic operates at all speeds and maintains a safe distance from the vehicle in front. It also works in stop-and-go traffic. Though the driver must keep a hand on the wheel, the system assists with steering and lane changes.
Once the car determines that all the Level 3 parameters are met, specific buttons on the steering wheel illuminate, indicating that the Level 3 system is engaged. Turquoise lights also appear on the steering wheel and in the head-up display.
Once Mercedes-Benz Drive Pilot is engaged, the driver can relax and enjoy various activities, as long as they remain ready to take over when required. If the driver fails to respond within 10 seconds, the system assumes the driver is incapacitated and takes appropriate measures, such as activating the hazards, coming to a stop, and contacting emergency services.
Implementing Level 3 autonomy is a highly complex process. It requires additional hardware, such as lidar sensors at the front of the car for improved object detection and measurement. Cameras are positioned behind the windshield and back window, and an enhanced antenna array ensures precise positioning accuracy.
Redundant systems, including steering motors, braking systems, wheel rotation sensors, and electrical systems, are added to enhance safety. Other features like road moisture sensors, radar sensors, and interior microphones are also incorporated.
Mercedes is presently lobbying the California and Nevada governments to allow the use of LED lights that glow turquoise when the autonomous system is activated. This would help other road users, including law enforcement officers, to identify vehicles operating autonomously. The request is currently pending, and Mercedes hopes for a positive response by the end of the year.
Overall, while it’s not a completely autonomous system, it represents a significant step toward achieving higher levels of car autonomy. With the right infrastructure and advancements in technology, we may eventually witness the realization of Level 5 autonomy and a future where driving becomes a truly hands-free experience.
A video introduction to Drive Pilot from Mercedes-Benz