The system for conditionally automated driving (SAE Level 3) can be ordered from May 17 as an optional extra for the S-Class for €5,000 (RM23,000) and for the EQS for €7,430 (RM34,000).
This makes Mercedes-Benz the first car maker in the world with an international valid certification for conditional automated driving, to offer such a system as an option ex-works for vehicles from series production.
DRIVE PILOT enables customers to hand the driving task over to the system under certain conditions in heavy traffic or congestion situations on suitable motorway sections in Germany up to a speed of 60kph.
For customers, this means they can relax or work and win back valuable time.
After activating DRIVE PILOT, the system controls the speed and distance, and guides the vehicle within its lane.
The route profile, events occurring on the route and traffic signs are all analysed and taken into consideration. DRIVE PILOT also reacts to unexpected traffic situations and handles them independently, e.g. by means of evasive manoeuvres within the lane or by using braking manoeuvres.
Mercedes-Benz's system for conditionally automated driving (SAE-Level 3) builds on the vehicle sensing technology of the Driving Assistance Package and includes additional sensors that the manufacturer considers indispensable for safe operation.
These mainly include radar, LiDAR and cameras, but ultrasound and moisture sensors also provide valuable data.
In parallel to the successful launch of DRIVE PILOT in Germany, Mercedes-Benz aims to obtain regulatory series approval for the two US states of California and Nevada by the end of the year, provided the legal situation permits the system operation.
"Mercedes-Benz is the first manufacturer to put a Level 3 system with international valid certification into series production," said Britta Seeger, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, responsible for Marketing & Sales.
"As a first step, we are offering this world-leading technology in Germany in the S-Class and the EQS. At the same time, we also want to receive certification in the US by the end of the year. Responsible handling of future technologies such as conditional automated driving is the key to acceptance among customers and in society."
