Mercedes-Benz has been given permission by Californian authorities to sell or lease cars that are fitted with conditional automated driving capability. On select roadways designated by the California Department of Motor Vehicles. This system called Drive Pilot, provides hands-free and eyes-free driving. Drivers can activate the Drive Pilot system, giving the automated system active control of the vehicle. As a result, drivers are free to do things like watch films, text, talk to passengers, all while not paying attention to the road in front of them or keeping their hands on the wheel.

Recent years have seen a significant increase in public interest in the development of autonomous cars as a potential game-changer in the transportation sector. These cars, also known as self-driving cars, have the ability to completely change the way we travel by utilizing cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, sensor networks, and machine learning algorithms. However, the path to completely autonomous vehicles is not a straight line but a long process with various degrees of automation.

To provide a standardized framework for categorizing autonomous vehicles based on their capabilities, the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) has defined a set of autonomous levels. These levels serve as a guide to understanding the varying degrees of automation present in a vehicle, ranging from no automation to full automation. By classifying autonomous vehicles into distinct levels, stakeholders in the automotive industry can assess and communicate the capabilities and limitations of these vehicles effectively.

The many autonomous levels outlined by the SAE will be examined in this article, along with their characteristics and ramifications. Understanding these levels will help us better comprehend the technological developments and difficulties posed by autonomous vehicles, opening the door for companies like Mercedes, Tesla, and others to reimagine the future of transportation.

Level 0: No Automation

At Level 0, vehicles are entirely reliant on human drivers for all aspects of operation. There is no automation present, and the driver has full control over steering, braking, and acceleration. Examples of Level 0 vehicles include traditional cars that lack any driver assistance technologies.

Level 1: Driver Assistance

Level 1 introduces driver assistance technologies that provide support to the driver in specific tasks. These technologies, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, can autonomously control certain aspects of the vehicle’s operation. However, the driver remains responsible for overall control and must be engaged at all times. Level 1 automation acts as a supplement to human driving, enhancing safety and comfort.

Level 2: Partial Automation

Level 2 vehicles offer a higher level of automation by incorporating advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). These systems can simultaneously control steering, acceleration, and braking under specific conditions. However, the driver must remain attentive and be ready to take control of the vehicle at any moment. Level 2 automation marks a significant step towards reducing driver workload and enhancing safety.

Level 3: Conditional Automation

At Level 3, vehicles are capable of autonomously controlling all aspects of driving under specific conditions. The driver can let go the control and allow the vehicle to handle tasks like acceleration, braking, and steering. However, the driver must be prepared to intervene when the system requests it. Level 3 automation enables a more hands-off driving experience but introduces complexities related to the driver’s transition from vehicle control to intervention when necessary. Its a hands off and eyes off level to put it simply.

Level 4: High Automation

Level 4 vehicles represent a significant advancement in automation. These vehicles can perform all driving tasks within specific environments or conditions without human intervention. While Level 4 vehicles excel in controlled environments, they may still require human intervention in certain situations outside their designated operational domain. The elimination of human intervention in most scenarios enables enhanced safety, efficiency, and accessibility in transportation.

Level 5: Full Automation

Level 5 automation represents the pinnacle of autonomous vehicles. These vehicles can operate in any environment, under any condition, without requiring human intervention. Level 5 vehicles are designed to navigate complex urban environments, handle inclement weather conditions, and adapt to unpredictable scenarios. Full automation has the potential to transform transportation by improving safety, reducing traffic congestion, and enabling new mobility services.