Mercedes tests L3 vehicles on Beijing expressways

Mercedes-Benz has started tests of its Level 3 system, which allows conditional hands-free driving, on designated expressways in Beijing, said the German premium carmaker on Monday.

The company said it aims to work with relevant authorities to develop the Level 3 system for the Chinese market. It has been conducting proving ground tests of automated driving in China since 2021.

Mercedes-Benz said its R&D team in China has been working to adapt the system to local infrastructure and traffic conditions, such as the country's unique road signs, markings, construction zones, special lanes such as bus lanes and tidal lanes.

In Germany, it has already introduced an optional Level 3 system into the S-Class and the all-electric EQS in compliance with local regulations.

The system, called DRIVE PILOT, can free the hands of the drivers under certain conditions in heavy traffic or congestions on suitable expressway sections in Germany at a speed-up to up to 60 km/hour.

In China, Mercedes-Benz has introduced Level 2 plus functions into the all-new long-wheelbase E-Class sedan.

The company said the system was developed specially in China, led by the local R&D team. Among other things, it enables the vehicle to initiate a lane change while the driver monitors the process, stay away from trucks, and overtake slower vehicles on expressways.