Mercedes has already received authorization to use Level 3 autonomous driving in Nevada

Mercedes has been using its driver assistance systems in Germany for some time. These allow it to qualify for a Level 3 autonomous driving system, which lets the car move on its own so the driver does not have to watch the road at all times. Of course, the driver must remain alert to the traffic and must be able to take action if necessary to correct any problem during the journey.

But although it can operate in certain situations in Germany, in the United States this system could not be used, so Mercedes vehicles driving in the country could not activate it. Until now, because the Drive Pilot from Mercedes has now obtained approval under US requirements. This makes it valid for use. But be careful, because for the moment it has only been validated in the state of Nevada.

Only two models are equipped with it

Although the news is good, there is no need to get too excited. In fact, there are only two Mercedes models that include this autonomous driving system. One is the Mercedes EQS, the electric saloon that will soon reach international markets. The other is the Mercedes S-Class, the latest generation of this premium saloon.

That said, the Drive Pilot system cannot be activated at any time. There are limitations designed to establish safety parameters and avoid accident risks. For this reason, the system may only be used up to a speed of 40 mph (64 km/h). This figure is set by the US system, so it will be 40 mph that triggers the Drive Pilot’s disengagement.

This restriction applies at present, although it is expected that within a certain time this limitation will disappear and the system will be usable at higher speeds.

How does Drive Pilot work?

Drive Pilot is already permitted in Nevada and is pending resolution in the state of California. Drivers in these states will be able to enjoy this innovation, but do we know how this revolutionary autonomous driving system works?

Drive Pilot issues a warning to the driver on motorway sections and other roads where it can be used. In this way, the driver knows when it can be activated and when it must be deactivated to avoid committing an offence. Once activated, the car takes charge of maintaining speed and staying in its lane without the driver needing to intervene.

Systems such as LiDAR radar, cameras and microphones, among other sensors, can detect traffic conditions. In this way, Drive Pilot can detect any unexpected event on the road and react to avoid an accident. It even detects the presence of an emergency vehicle and acts accordingly.

The driver can retake control at any moment and remain in control even when Drive Pilot is activated. If for any reason the car warns that the driver must regain control of the vehicle and does not do so, it will safely apply the brakes together with the hazard lights. It will then make an automatic call to the emergency services and unlock the doors, in case an incident has occurred that requires medical attention.