Mercedes Benz is the first German manufacturer to start selling its “DrivePilot” system . Similar to Tesla's “Autopilot” this allows its owner automated driving. If desired, the on-board computer then steers its driver fully automatically, for example, through slow-moving traffic or construction sites. But there are restrictions.
Mercedes demands a surcharge of 5,000 euros plus VAT for its “DrivePilot” system in the S-Class. The upgrade is also available for the EQS electric model. If you want to enjoy the autonomous driving assistant here, you have to pay an additional 7400 euros – also plus VAT.
With the offer, Mercedes is primarily aimed at its business customers. In addition to the simple, relaxed gliding through tough traffic, thanks to the DrivePilot assistance system, for example, correspondence such as e-mails and letters can be processed while driving. Overall, Mercedes clearly positions the system as an alternative to Tesla's "Autopilot", but still severely restricts the range of functions.
So far, primarily simple driver assistance systems have been used in cars, which can relieve the driver of various tasks, such as staying in lane or keeping the distance. however, do not offer automatic swerving or overtaking.
If the “Drive Pilot” takes over, Mercedes is responsible
Mercedes was the first car manufacturer in Germany to receive approval for the operation of its autonomous driving system. The driver is able to relinquish control of the vehicle, for example to watch a film or read the news. However, the driver must be able to take control again at any time, so he must not lie down to sleep.
Legally, autonomous driving is still tricky, so the use of the system is subject to strict specifications and limited to very specific situations. To be more precise, for use on motorways and up to a speed of 60 km/h.
If the on-board computer recognizes that the requirements have been met, the DrivePilot can be activated. The exciting thing about it: As soon as he takes over driving, the responsibility lies with Mercedes. If the system recognizes that it is becoming incapacitated, it prompts the driver to take over within 10 seconds.
A question of insurance
In terms of insurance, the German Insurance Association (GDV) made it clear that Mercedes DrivePilot meets the requirements of a Level3 system. This means that the driver can turn away from the traffic, but must always be able to take control of the car and thus take responsibility again.
"In terms of traffic safety, we welcome the fact that the first highly automated driving system is initially only used in a limited speed range and on motorways - i.e. in traffic situations without oncoming or crossing traffic, without pedestrians and without cyclists," says Deputy GDV General Manager Anja Käfer -Rohrbach.
