Bentley Prioritizes Safety, Ditches Level 3 Self- Driving Technology

Apr 03, 2024 01:03 AM EDT

ORANGE BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT — (Photo : PEXELS/Jeffrey Paa Kwesi Opare)

Bentley will not offer level 3 self-driving cars. Adrian Hallmark, CEO of Bentley, emphasized the potential risks associated with Level 3 autonomous driving technology. Such stand causes the company to depart from the strategies followed by Mercedes and BMW. As a result, Bentley has chosen not to introduce a Level 3 autonomous system to its lineup.

Bentley's Take: Level 3 Self-Driving Technology Dangerous

In a strategic move, Bentley is set to unveil a distinctive "Level 2 Plus Plus" automation system for its vehicles, aligning with Volkswagen's endeavors towards developing cutting-edge Level 4 autonomous systems. As reported in CarScoops, the decision not to develop its own system stems from Bentley's assertion that the technology represents a regression in safety standards.

The departing CEO, Adrian Hallmark, has recently voiced concerns over the safety implications of Level 3 autonomous systems, categorizing them as dangerous. In contrast, Level 2 systems assume partial control over driving functions such as steering and speed but mandate continuous driver attentiveness towards the road.

Although Level 3 systems offer drivers the freedom to divert their focus from driving tasks-potentially indulging in activities like reading while driving-they necessitate immediate driver intervention readiness, posing a significant challenge.

Hallmark's assessment, based on rigorous testing analysis, highlights the dangers associated with Level 3 systems, primarily due to the heavy reliance on driver attention recovery and intervention. Consequently, Bentley will prioritize the advancement of Level 2 Plus and Level 2 Plus Plus systems as a strategic pivot.

This will encompass features like remote parking aid and a feature known as "highway assist," although Hallmark did not elaborate on the distinguishing factors that would set it apart from a Level 2 system. Regrettably, while Levels 1 to 5 are distinctly outlined, the enhancements denoted by the "pluses" attached to each level are left to the discretion of individual automakers.

For instance, Tesla categorizes Autopilot as a Level 2 system and Full Self-Driving (FSD) as a Level 2 Plus system.

Mercedes-Benz Pioneers Level 3 Self-Driving System

Mercedes-Benz was the first in the US to be approved for an automated driving system last year. Its state-of-the-art Drive Pilot technology makes its American premiere. According to Forbes, this is a milestone for the industry.

This state-of-the-art technology is the first approved SAE Level 3 system in history and signifies a major development in mobility. In the context of autonomous driving, SAE Level 3, sometimes referred to as "conditionally automated driving," denotes a level at which the vehicle can independently handle a number of driving tasks, such as maintaining awareness of its surroundings, with minimal help from a human.

The long-awaited introduction of the Drive Pilot system on the roads of California and Nevada in late 2023 will feature a select fleet of EQS Sedans equipped with the SAE Level 3 technology. Subsequently, an extensive deployment of 2024 EQS Sedan and S-Class models with the Drive Pilot system is set for early 2024.

Harnessing the capabilities of Drive Pilot, vehicles have the ability to autonomously manage the intricate driving responsibilities at speeds of up to 40 mph in favorable freeway conditions, especially beneficial during congested traffic scenarios. Apart from elevating the overall driving experience, this technology allows drivers the flexibility to partake in alternate activities, distinguishing it significantly from level 2 systems.

Equipped with an array of sensors ranging from LiDAR to rear window cameras and microphones attuned to detect emergency vehicles, Drive Pilot ensures accuracy and dependability. The system's redundancies in steering, braking actuators, and onboard electrical components further emphasize its dedication to safety.