Mercedes-Benz Leads Tesla in Self-Driving

Mercedes-Benz has received approval from the California Department of Motor Vehicles to sell or lease cars with an automated driving system in the state. This makes Mercedes-Benz the first automaker to receive such authorization in California, surpassing Tesla. The approved system called 'DRIVE PILOT' is a Level 3 automated driving system that allows drivers to take their eyes off the wheel under certain conditions but requires them to be ready to resume control if needed. The system is limited to operating on designated highways during daylight hours at speeds not exceeding 40 miles per hour. Mercedes-Benz plans to offer the system as an option for its model year 2024 S-Class and EQS Sedan vehicles in the US market, with the first deliveries expected later this year.