The SAE levels of driving automation run from Level 0 (no automation) to Level 5 (full self-driving anywhere). Most advanced systems on sale today are Level 2: the car can steer, brake and accelerate, but the driver must supervise at all times. Level 3 — “conditional automation” — allows the driver to take their eyes off the road in specific conditions, with the car responsible for driving until it asks the driver to take over. Mercedes-Benz Drive Pilot was the first Level 3 system approved for customers in Germany and later in Nevada and California.

The SAE levels

Level Name Who drives?
0 No automation Driver
1 Driver assistance Driver, with steering or speed help
2 Partial automation Car steers and controls speed; driver supervises
3 Conditional automation Car drives in defined conditions; driver takes over on request
4 High automation Car drives itself within a defined area, no takeover needed
5 Full automation Car drives itself everywhere

How Drive Pilot works

Drive Pilot combines radar, cameras, lidar, a high-definition map, precise positioning and redundant steering and braking. In approved conditions it drives the car, and the driver can use the central screen for other activities. The car gives the driver time to take back control when conditions change.

When it can be used

Drive Pilot is limited to specific circumstances, such as:

  • Mapped, divided highways.
  • Heavy traffic at limited speeds.
  • Daylight and good weather.
  • No construction zones.

It was approved in Germany first, where speed limits for the system were later raised, and in Nevada and California in the U.S.

Level 3 vs Level 2

With Level 2 systems like Super Cruise or BlueCruise, the driver remains responsible at all times, even when hands-free. With Level 3, responsibility shifts to the system while it is active. Read Super Cruise vs Autopilot vs BlueCruise.

Robotaxis

Level 4 robotaxi services operate in some U.S. cities without drivers, within defined areas. They are a separate category from privately owned cars.

And chauffeurs?

Automation can reduce fatigue, but a chauffeur provides far more than driving: meeting passengers, handling luggage, adapting to changes, knowing the city and ensuring safety. Read what to expect from a professional chauffeur and the W223 S-Class.