Mercedes-Benz just became the first automaker to gain permission from California to sell or lease Level 3 autonomous cars, reports Reuters.
Drivers will be able to take their eyes off the road and hands off the wheel, and perform other activities like watching videos.
Mercedes has a similar certification in Nevada, said reports.
California limits Mercedes’ self-driving to daylight hours on highways at speeds under 40MPG and in high traffic conditions. Also, the driver must be in a position to resume control.
Mercedes received the permit for its Drive Pilot system that uses sensors, cameras, LiDAR and radar/ultrasound to monitor the car’s surroundings.
Drive Pilot will be an option on Mercedes S-Class sedans and EQS SUVs in the US starting later this year, said Automotive News.
It is notable that Mercedes received the California DMV permit prior to Tesla. California is one of Tesla’s largest markets, representing 16 percent of its shipments worldwide, said Reuters.
Additions: See comment section for a note on driver vs. Mercedes liability.
Also, the California permit limits drivers using Drive Pilot to highways in the following regions; the Bay Area, Central Valley, Los Angeles, Sacramento and San Diego and on the interstate highway connecting Southern California to Nevada, said Reuters.
Source: Reuters via Engadget, Automotive News
Hello Shawn. I have not verified this but Engadget reports (see link in story) the following; “If the rules for use are followed, Mercedes (and not the driver) will be legally responsible for any accident that happens.”
Question,
If your Benz is in a wreck using the self driving mode, Who’s fault is it?
Benz because their product was driving?
The person who owns the car?
The person sitting behind the wheel (even though they were not driving)
The state of CA for pushing the law though?
I think the push on self driving cars is to eliminate the largest profession in USA. (The Truck driver)