Following BMW, Mercedes-Benz Gets A Level 3 Autonomous Driving Test Permit In China

Mercedes-Benz autonomous driving system. (Doc. Mercedes-Benz AG)

JAKARTA - Mercedes-Benz recently obtained approval for a level 3 autonomous driving trial in Beijing, China, according to a report from Reuters, Monday, December 18.

The German manufacturer received approval from the Beijing City government on Saturday, in line with regulators' efforts to accelerate the mass adoption of autonomous driving technology.

While it has not been disclosed how long the test will take, this is the second trial for Mercedes-Benz after previously testing a level 3 autonomous propulsion system in a closed area of China in 2021.

This autonomous driving system, known as the 'Drive Pilot', has a very sophisticated vehicle architecture, based on redundancy with many sensors that allows for convenient and safe conditional auto-drive. When the Pilot Drive is enabled, the system dynamically takes over the driving task, allowing drivers to switch to other activities.

With Drive Pilot, the car can be driven up to a speed of 64 km/hour. The control button for activating the Drive Pilot is located on the steering wheel. When the button is pressed, this system will control the speed, distance, and easily guide the vehicle on its path.

Previously, Mercedes-Benz rivals BMW had also confirmed the acceptance of a trial license in Shanghai, China. This brings other manufacturers closer to presenting more autonomous driving systems in their vehicle lines. BMW plans to launch a product with a level 3 self-driving function if it can comply with Chinese laws and regulations. This latest license will expand the test area of advanced driving technology for manufacturers in the region.

This feature operates at a maximum speed of 60 km/hour on the highway through a structurally separated traffic lane. This system is able to control the speed of the vehicle by adjusting the distance to the vehicle in front of it.