This is how the automatic lane change function of Mercedes-Benz works, enabling autonomous overtaking

Currently available on the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, E-Class and S-Class, as well as on all models of the star brand’s EQ series in the US and Canada, the ALC (Automatic Lane Change) function will soon also be available in the European market. Its debut will come with the first units of the new E-Class, scheduled for this summer.

Adapted to the peculiarities of European traffic, this ALC function, which forms part of the DISTRONIC assistance system, adds to the driver assistance systems that fall under SAE Level 2 for Europe, also known as Level 2+. Let us recall that Mercedes-Benz is the only manufacturer offering an SAE Level 3 automated driving system approved with international validity with its Drive Pilot, which allows the driving tasks (steering, accelerator and brakes) to be handed over to the system in dense traffic or traffic jams up to a speed of 60 km/h.

At present, this technology, which other manufacturers such as Audi or Tesla, for example, also have, cannot yet be used in Spain.

Automatic overtaking: you even forget about the indicator

However, the ALC can be used from the very first moment, as it does not reach that Level 3 assistance level, which is still “prohibited” in our market. Compared with other similar systems already in existence, what sets Mercedes-Benz’s ALC apart is that the driver does not have to signal the intention to overtake by operating the indicator. The system detects slower vehicles ahead and, with Distronic active, can initiate a lane change on its own within a speed range of between 80 and 140 km/h, completely automatically, provided there is sufficient space.

The driver does not even need to worry about activating the indicator, since it is the vehicle itself that monitors the adjacent lanes, the traffic approaching from behind or the possible presence of a vehicle in the blind spot. If the manoeuvre is possible, it activates the indicator, changes lane, overtakes the slower vehicle and returns to its position in the lane as soon as it has passed it. The only requirements for the system to work are driving on motorway-type roads with lane markings, separated directional carriageways and posted speed limits.

That said, this is a Level 2 assistance system, so the driver must keep their hands on the steering wheel at all times.

Related information of interest

• Autonomous driving on the Audi A8: war on traffic jams!
• Mercedes-Benz already offers its Drive Pilot autonomous driving system
• Another blow for Tesla: drivers don’t trust AutoPilot