Mercedes-Benz is the first German manufacturer to begin selling its “DrivePilot” system. Similar to Tesla’s “Autopilot,” this system enables its owner to drive automatically. Upon request, the onboard computer can then guide the driver—for example, fully automatically—through stop-and-go traffic or construction zones. However, there are limitations.
Mercedes charges an additional 5,000 euros, plus VAT, for its “DrivePilot” system in the S-Class. The upgrade is also available for the EQS electric model. Anyone wishing to enjoy the benefits of the autonomous driving assistant must pay an additional 7,400 euros—also plus VAT.
With this offering, Mercedes is primarily targeting its business customers. In addition to allowing drivers to glide smoothly and effortlessly through heavy traffic, the DrivePilot assistance system is designed to enable tasks such as handling correspondence—including emails and letters—while driving. Mercedes is clearly positioning the system as an alternative to Tesla’s “Autopilot,” though it still significantly limits the range of functions.
To date, cars have primarily been equipped with basic driver-assistance systems that can take over various tasks for the driver, such as lane-keeping or maintaining a safe following distance, but do not offer automatic evasion or overtaking capabilities.
If "Drive Pilot" takes over, Mercedes is responsible
Mercedes has become the first automaker in Germany to receive approval to operate its autonomous driving system. This allows the driver to relinquish control of the vehicle—for example, to watch a movie or read the news. However, the driver must be able to take back control at any time, so they must not fall asleep.
Legally, autonomous driving remains a sensitive issue, so the use of the system is subject to strict regulations and limited to very specific situations. More specifically, it is limited to use on highways and at speeds of up to 60 km/h.
If the onboard computer determines that the conditions are met, DrivePilot can be activated. The exciting thing about this is that as soon as it takes over driving, the responsibility lies with Mercedes. If the system detects that it is unable to continue, it prompts the driver to take over within 10 seconds.
A matter of insurance
From an insurance perspective, the German Insurance Association (GDV) made it clear that Mercedes DrivePilot meets the requirements of a Level 3 system. This means that the driver can take their eyes off the road but must always be ready to take back control of the car and, with it, responsibility.
“From a road safety perspective, we welcome the fact that the first highly automated driving system will initially be used only within a limited speed range and on highways—that is, in traffic situations without oncoming or cross traffic, pedestrians, or cyclists,” says Anja Käfer-Rohrbach, Deputy Executive Director of the GDV.
