Mercedes-Benz has launched its new S-Class in the United States without a Level 3 autonomous driving system, shifting its priorities towards advanced driver assistance.
The car maker acknowledged that the technology is not yet practical enough for drivers. Its Drive Pilot system, approved in 2023, allowed drivers to take their eyes off the road under certain conditions, but the system operates only at speeds up to 65 km/h on limited routes, restricting its use to stop-and-go traffic rather than motorway driving.
Mercedes-Benz chief technology officer Jörg Burzer said being first does not always mean offering the right solution and stated that the company has reset its priorities. The car maker plans to offer MB.DRIVE Assist Pro, a Level 2 system equipped with 27 sensors for lane changes and intersection navigation, before aiming for Level 4 autonomy after 2030.
