STUTTGART: Mercedes-Benz has started rolling out the Automatic Lane Change (ALC) function for partially automated driving in Europe.
Available in the Driving Assistance Plus Package for 33 European countries, ALC is offered for 15 Mercedes-Benz models, including C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, GLC, CLE, EQE, EQS, EQS SUV, and EQE SUV.
These models can be equipped with ALC directly from the factory or via an over-the-air (OTA) update.
In addition to new configurations, ALC will be available for around 200,000 previously delivered cars in Europe.
Starting in September 2024, the OTA update can be installed on current E-Class models, CLE Coupé and Cabriolet, as well as the C-Class, S-Class, GLC, EQE, and EQS from modification year 23/1 onwards.
Customers will be notified of availability, and the update can be started through the MBUX infotainment system or the Mercedes me App.
The ALC function enhances the over 40 driving assistance systems already offered by Mercedes-Benz.
It enables automatic lane changes on motorways when Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC is activated, assisting with overtaking slower vehicles or following routes to the next exit.
Mercedes-Benz initially introduced this function in North America in 2023 and also developed a version for the Chinese market. Each version is adapted to regional traffic conditions and legal requirements.
The ALC system operates within a speed range of 80 to 140kph on suitable highways with at least two separate lanes.
The navigation system must recognise the highway, lane markings must be detected by the car's cameras, and sufficient free space must be available.
As a Level 2 system, the driver remains responsible for driving at all times. Radar sensors and cameras monitor the car's surroundings to facilitate lane changes for overtaking and navigating junctions or exits.
“We simultaneously developed the Automatic Lane Change function, or ALC for short, in North America, Europe and China for our local customers," said Mercedes-Benz Group chief technology officer Markus Schäfer.
"With ALC, Mercedes-Benz is offering a driving function as an over-the-air update for the first time.”
