The Future of Driving: Mercedes-Benz Tests Level 4 Autonomous System, Ready to Hit the Streets

According to Carscoops, Mercedes-Benz has become the first foreign automaker to receive permission from China to test its Level 4 autonomous driving system on highways and urban roads in the country’s capital, Beijing.

In a post on its Weibo social media account, Mercedes-Benz confirmed that the tests are being conducted with the S-Class sedan equipped with a comprehensive sensor system, including multiple LiDAR sensors arranged in a wavy structure on the roof.

The German automaker stated that its Level 4 autonomous system is being tested in various scenarios, including parking, reversing, navigating roundabouts, and making left turns without any human intervention. The test prototypes also feature backup systems for improved safety and can slow down and change lanes at toll booths.

As a Level 4 autonomous system, Mercedes-Benz’s prototypes can operate without human supervision for extended periods. Carscoops reports that similar technology is being tested by Waymo and Baidu in China.

In late 2022, Mercedes-Benz also received approval to deploy its Level 4 automated parking system at a parking lot in Stuttgart Airport.

Last year, the German automaker introduced the Drive Pilot system to customers in the US, becoming the first Level 3 autonomous driving system installed in a commercial vehicle and approved for use on American highways. According to Carscoops, Drive Pilot is distinguished from Mercedes-Benz’s lower-level autonomous systems by the inclusion of LiDAR sensors.

Carscoops notes that while numerous Level 4 autonomous driving tests are taking place in China, the world’s largest automotive market, only Level 2 autonomous systems are currently permitted for use in commercial vehicles. However, with the growing interest and research in new autonomous systems by automakers and technology companies, regulations regarding autonomous driving levels in China are expected to evolve soon.