Mercedes Benz is ready to roll out the 'SAE level 3 automated driving system' in the United States of America (USA). Also, in doing so, the German Luxury Carmaker becomes the first automotive company in the world to do so. Nevada is the first state to confirm that it will comply with the new system's demands. This significant milestone involves introducing a DRIVE PILOT' system in the USA. The only SAE level 3 system available in the standard production vehicle sector.

What is the Mercedes Benz DRIVE PILOT?

As per the Nevada Chapter 482A for Autonomous Vehicles requirements, the Mercedes Benz' DRIVE PILOT' system will allow the driver to hand over dynamic driving to the car under certain situations. Besides Nevada, the German car manufacturer is looking to take this SAE level 3 system across the country, beginning with California later this year. The 'DRIVE PILOT' will also be available in the US market exclusively as an option for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and EQS Sedan models. The first cars in these editions will be delivered in the second half of 2023.

Why is the Mercedes Benz' DRIVE PILOT' an offer you cannot refuse?

The unique aspect of the Mercedes Benz' DRIVE PILOT' SAE level 3 system is its effectiveness on the freeways and in high traffic density. It helps the driver speed up to about 40 mph. Besides, within the steering rim, you will find the control buttons of this SAE level 3 automated driving system.

Now, when the driver ignites the 'DRIVE PILOT,' it is the system that will easily exert control over speed and distance. In addition, the SAE level 3 system can react to unexpected traffic situations very effectively.

The curious case of LiDAR sensors and the Mercedes Benz' DRIVE PILOT':

One of the unique features of the Mercedes Benz' DRIVE PILOT' system is the surround sensors included in the 'Driving Assistance Package'. It consists of additional sensors, which the German luxury brand itself deems necessary for safe automated driving. This SAE level 3 automated driving system includes the LiDAR sensor and a rear window camera.

There are also a few microphones available that help in detecting emergency vehicles. In addition, the Mercedes Benz' DRIVE PILOT' system also consists of a backup in the form of redundant steering and braking actuators. Just in case even one of the system fails.

Mercedes Benz' DRIVE PILOT' and its precision-based positioning system:

The Mercedes Benz comprising the 'DRIVE PILOT' system, has a much more powerful positioning than the conventional GPS systems. This SAE level 3 system essentially consists of LiDAR, radar and ultrasound sensors, and the camera. A digital HD map that provides a three-dimensional image of the road and its surroundings is also available. All the map data is stored in the backend data centre and regularly updated.

Conditionally automated driving and Mercedes Benz' DRIVE PILOT':

Yet another unique feature of the is the conditional automated driving. It is designed specifically for Mercedes Benz' DRIVE PILOT' to help the driver drive on auto-pilot mode while he focuses on other activities. Also, when this SAE level 3 system having the 'DRIVE PILOT' is activated, other applications on the integrated central display are enabled, which are otherwise blocked when the vehicle is on the road.

It was in May 2022 that the innovative Mercedes Benz' DRIVE PILOT' system was first introduced. As a result, it became the first SAE level 3 automated driving system officially launched in public. With it now being released in the United States of America, only time will tell whether or not it will make an impact in one of the most powerful markets in the world to become popular in most countries around the globe eventually.