But with numerous cars offering ADAS and automated lane-keeping systems, letting unpick what this actually means.
Whats Level 3 again?
In the case of Mercedes, a special DRIVE PILOT enables drivers to engage in certain secondary activities.
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But how does it work?
The drive pilot controls can be turned on in the steering wheel rim.
Once activated, the system controls the speed and distance, and maintains lane keeping.
The system also reacts to unexpected traffic situations like swerving or the need to brake, handling them independently.
The hazard warning lights kick in.
Once the vehicle stops, it contacts the Mercedes-Benz emergency call system.
The doors and windows unlock, to help first responders to gain interior access.
Further, the technology is currently exclusive to Germany.
Other countries need an appropriate national legal framework first.
The biggest issue here is being eyes-free
What makes Mercedes-Benz offering significant?
Drivers must still pay attention to the road during hands-free driving.
But here, were talking about driving without looking at the road.
Instead, drivers can surf the internet and watch movies.
This is a big deal in automation progression.
All while they are supposedly controlling their Teslas.
But its a start of putting autonomous driving more confidently in Level 3 over Level 2 automation in practice.
Story byCate Lawrence
Cate Lawrence is an Australian tech journo living in Berlin.
