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Automate Driving with DRIVE PILOT
01 Jun 2022
May marks another insight into the future of driving as Mercedes-Benz launch the conditionally automated driving system, DRIVE PILOT, in Germany. The launch of DRIVE PILOT makes Mercedes-Benz the first car manufacturer in the world to have an international valid certification for conditional automated driving.
Initially, this world leading technology is being offered in Germany, where drivers can order DRIVE PILOT as an optional extra for S-Class and EQS. Mercedes-Benz hope to receive certification in the U.S by the end of 2022. For us in the UK, we may have to wait a little longer until we see DRIVE PILOT in action on our roads.
What is DRIVE PILOT?
DRIVE PILOT is the name of the conditionally automated driving system made by Mercedes-Benz. It enables drivers to hand the task of driving over to the system under certain conditions such as in heavy traffic, congested circumstances or even motorway sections in Germany up to a speed of 60 Km/h. Using this system allows customers to relax or work and win back valuable time.
How does DRIVE PILOT work?
Activate DRIVE PILOT and the system will take over. It will control speed and distance from other traffic, and guides the vehicle safely within its lane. The system has the ability to read an analyse unexpected events, road and traffic signs, which are taken into consideration and handled independently if needed using evasive manoeuvring or braking manoeuvres.
If desired by the driver, the system will come integrated into the Driver Assistance Package and will result in an extra cost. Extra sensors such as radar, LiDAR and cameras will be used and fitted to the vehicle to ensure the use of DRIVE PILOT is safe when in operation.
Redundant System Design
As a driver, handing over the control of your vehicle to a system requires a lot of trust. Conditionally automated vehicle operation according to SAE-Level 3 requires a system design that must manage any simple or more serious malfunction. Therefore, in the unlikely event of a system malfunction, the vehicle remains manoeuvrable and is able to perform a safe handover back to the driver.
In the event that the driver is unable to take over, the system will perform an emergency stop. To ensure the emergency stop is safe for both the driver and other road users, the system uses the data it continuously collects such as distance to other road users. The emergency stop will only occur if the driver fails to take back control of the vehicle after 10 seconds.
What can we expect to see next?
Mercedes-Benz continuously set new benchmarks in automotive safety with advanced technical innovations. For years we have enjoyed driver assistance systems which make life much easier in every day driving situations. So, what can we look forward to in the future? We can expect to see INTELLIGENT PARK PILOT, which will enable fully automated, driverless parking to SAE-Level 4. Stay posted for updates!