Mercedes-Benz Obtains Approval for Conditionally Automated Driving Test License in Beijing

Mercedes-Benz became one of the first automakers to receive approval for the conditionally automated driving (Level 3) highway road test license in Beijing. The company is actively cooperating with relevant authorities in developing its Level 3 systems for China.

Mercedes-Benz is the only car manufacturer in the world with the world's first internationally valid system approval for conditionally automated driving and a SAE Level 4 driverless parking system in place. 

The level 3 system DRIVE PILOT builds on the sensor technology of the Driving Assistance Package and includes additional sensors that Mercedes-Benz considers essential for safe conditionally automated driving.

These include a LiDAR sensor, an advanced stereo camera in the front window, a multi-purpose camera in the rear window and microphones, especially for detecting blue lights and other special signals from emergency vehicles.

Since 2021, Mercedes-Benz has undertaken proving ground testing and validation in China to continuously enhance Level 3 system performance.

In the US, the production-ready version of DRIVE PILOT has already made its on-road debut in California and Nevada with a limited fleet of Level 3 equipped EQS Sedans.

Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer, Development & Procurement, says: "Mercedes-Benz as the leader in automated driving technology is dedicated to providing the best customer experience - worldwide. After bringing our DRIVE PILOT to Germany and the U.S., the testing license in Beijing is the next important milestone to get conditionally automated driving ready for Chinese roads. We will incorporate all our global expertise to support the local R&D team for a safe and reliable system design.”

Mercedes-Benz aims to expand its local R&D team in China, and expects it to grow to 2,000 people by the end of 2023.