Mercedes-Benz, the German luxury automaker, has received approval from Germany's 'Federal Motor Transport Authority' to debut its self-driving system known as 'Drive Pilot' in 2022. This marks Mercedes-Benz as the first automaker to receive full approval for a self-driving system. This means that this system will be legal to use on public roads by regular consumers.
Mercedes-Benz has referred to Drive PIlot as a 'level 3' self-driving system, which essentially means the car can handle all road procedures at low speeds. Drive Pilot will allow cars to achieve speeds of 37mph while performing all tasks, such as merging lanes and turning left. Previous 'level 2' self-driving systems from Mercedes-Benz allowed for automated car speed and direction control, but not for lane switching or advanced turning.
Luxury Self-Driving Cars
Mercedes-Benz Debuted a New Automated Driving System Named 'Drive Pilot'
Trend Themes
1. Level 3 Self-driving Systems - As advanced self-driving systems move toward approval for use on public roads, there is an opportunity for disruptive innovation in developing and improving their capabilities and applications.
2. Luxury Autonomous Vehicles - The approval of self-driving systems for use on public roads opens up possibilities for the development of autonomous cars equipped with features that cater to luxury and comfort, even as they navigate busy roads.
3. Improved Self-driving Safety Features - As self-driving systems become more common and widespread, there is an opportunity for innovation in the development of safety features that can prevent accidents and keep passengers and other road users safe.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive Industry - As self-driving systems become more common and widespread, there is an opportunity for the automotive industry to develop and market advanced autonomous vehicles with enhanced safety, comfort, and luxury features.
2. Transportation Industry - The development and approval of self-driving systems for use on public roads will likely disrupt the transportation industry, as it opens up possibilities for a new era of autonomous driving for commercial and personal vehicles.
3. Software Industry - The development of advanced self-driving systems will require innovation in software and algorithm development to ensure optimal performance and safety measures.