MERCEDES-BENZ

Stuttgart's three-pointed star giant will release level 3 autopilot models

From May 17th in Germany, it will be possible to order a Mercedes-Benz car with Drive Pilot Level 3 SAE. In the initial phase, this option will only be available for two models – the new generation S-Class sedan and the EQS electric liftback.

Autopilot costs €5,000 for the S-Class and €7,430 for the EQS, as the price includes the Driver Assistance Package Plus, which is standard on the S-Class.

The Stuttgart-based automaker is the first in the industry to be certified for level 3 autopilot. Last December, the German Federal Road Transport Authority (KBA) issued an “international system approval” for the Drive Pilot autonomy. Level 3 based on UN regulation UN-R157.

The third level of autonomy means the driver can take their hands off the steering wheel while driving on the relevant German highways at speeds of up to 60 km/h. In this case, the autopilot will control the speed and distance, as well as the direction of the car in its lane, as well as react to the sudden appearance of other cars nearby and avoid unsafe maneuvers.

Britta Seeger, member of the Mercedes-Benz Board of Management, said the start of German sales of the S-Class and EQS with Drive Pilot Level 3 is the first step, and the company is platinum-platinum to receive steering system certification. autonomous government by the end of the year.

AVnews