Mercedes Self-Driving Cars to Begin Pilot Program
Mercedes' self-driving future is here as a fleet of self-driving S-Class taxis hit the streets of California.
Future is Near
We've long been told that self-driving cars are the future. But honestly, most of us don't want to completely give up the joys of driving, though it would be nice to let the car do it sometimes. Mercedes-Benz continues to be at the forefront of this technology and is now taking the next step by testing self-driving S-Class sedans in California.
Photos: Mercedes-Benz
Gathering Feedback
The purpose of these tests is twofold. For starters, Mercedes is using them to continue to develop its existing technology. But the brand is also using the cars to gauge user feedback on self-driving vehicles. In the future, the brand admits that it's far more likely to be used in commercial applications, including long-haul routes, than regular passenger cars, however.
Photos: Mercedes-Benz
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Room for Improvement
"We have not put the project on ice," Mercedes explained to Automotive News. "We are looking at where we can improve efficiency and gain synergies so we don't unnecessarily duplicate or triplicate our development work. This pilot program is about capturing the user experience." Mercedes has already been testing level 4 autonomous vehicles in Europe for some time now.
Photos: Mercedes-Benz
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Drive Yourself
This self-driving Mercedes fleet includes roughly 30 vehicles, most of which are S-Class sedans. The cars are equipped with a host of sensors and are fully capable of piloting themselves. Regardless, a safety driver remains behind the wheel at all times in case something goes wrong. Those drivers, at least in California, won't be Mercedes employees.
Photos: Mercedes-Benz
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Preparing for the Future
The purpose of this test is to figure out what consumers want or expect from a self-driving car. In addition, Daimler Mobility is assisting with the project to lend their expertise with fleet management. Initial testing will take place in San Jose, California, a city that's working to prepare itself for the future with a population that's expected to grow 40% in the next 20 years.
Photos: Mercedes-Benz
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Clear Path
At this point, Mercedes sees its most profitable self-driving venture in the commercial sector. Truck drivers are getting harder and harder to hire these days, and there are strict requirements in place that slow downloads. Big rigs also navigate long, straight highways instead of complex city streets, for the most part, which makes programming them easier. Thus, this testing appears to be just the tip of the iceberg in terms of what's to come.
Photos: Mercedes-Benz
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