The automotive industry is experiencing intense competition focused on pricing, electric vehicle advancements, and in-car technology. Autonomous driving technology is emerging as a key battleground, with brands like Mercedes and Tesla leading the charge. Mercedes has showcased its Level 2++ autonomous capabilities in a Class S sedan during tests in China, demonstrating impressive performance in complex traffic. While the technology is evolving, the highest level currently allowed in Europe is Level 2, with potential advancements in Level 4 testing underway.
The Competitive Landscape of the Automotive Industry
In today’s rapidly evolving automotive market, manufacturers are locked in a fierce competition that shows no signs of slowing down. This battle encompasses various aspects, including pricing, electric vehicle range, rapid charging capabilities, and advanced in-car technology.
Mercedes’ Groundbreaking Advances in Autonomous Driving
Amidst this competitive fervor, one area gaining significant traction is autonomous driving technology. While many brands vie for the largest screens and the most innovative gadgets, the push for self-driving capabilities continues to accelerate, especially among Chinese companies that are rolling out new innovations at a remarkable pace. For instance, during a recent test in China, we were captivated by the Denza N7 system’s impressive performance.
However, established brands like Mercedes are not falling behind. Besides Tesla, a trailblazer in autonomous technology with its Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature, Mercedes has made significant strides by offering Level 3 autonomy in Europe. Although regulatory limitations currently restrict its use to highways at speeds up to 130 km/h, the potential for advancement is evident.
Mercedes showcased its capabilities during a real-world test in China, where a Class S sedan demonstrated remarkable autonomous driving on the bustling streets of Shanghai. In a video shared on Weibo, the vehicle navigated a 21-kilometer route, connecting the company’s research and development center to its design hub, all without any driver intervention for an impressive 50 minutes. This feat is particularly noteworthy given the complex traffic conditions and interactions with other vehicles.
The Class S not only adeptly handled dynamic situations, such as navigating intersections, but also exhibited lane-changing abilities akin to those found in the EQS available in Europe. Furthermore, the vehicle demonstrated its decision-making skills by taking alternate routes when necessary.
Understanding Levels of Autonomous Driving
Although Mercedes recently received authorization for Level 4 autonomous driving tests in China, the technology observed in the Class S during this demonstration is classified as Level 2++. This level represents an enhanced version of Level 2 automation, which allows drivers to briefly remove their hands from the steering wheel without relinquishing complete control of the vehicle. Currently, this is the highest level of automation permitted in Europe.
The five levels of autonomous driving, ranging from basic assistance to full automation, highlight the evolution of vehicle technology. Level 5, which allows for the removal of steering wheels and pedals, is exemplified by Tesla’s Robotaxi. Conversely, Level 2 remains the most common level in widespread use today, enabling vehicles to manage acceleration, deceleration, and lane positioning through a combination of adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance.
Mercedes’ Level 2++ system, much like Tesla’s and the newly introduced Xpeng P7+ showcased at the Paris Motor Show, relies solely on camera technology and does not incorporate LiDAR sensors. Despite the growing popularity of LiDAR among various manufacturers, Mercedes had previously announced a collaboration with Luminar to integrate this sensor technology into their autonomous vehicles. However, for those equipped with Level 3 autonomous driving features, LiDAR sensors are indeed utilized.