Stellantis now offers Level 3 autonomous driving through STLA AutoDrive, which is a hands-free and eyes-off drivomg system that works at low speeds.

Stellantis recently revealed its new step toward self-driving technology. This new system is called STLA AutoDrive 1.0, and it’s meant to be a hands-free and eyes-off function that provides you with SAE Level 3 driving technology. This new tech is a key pillar of the company’s strategy, which will work alongside STLA Brain and STLA Smart Cockpit. These technology developments will advance vehicle intelligence and user experience.

Perfect for your drive in town

Most city streets have much lower speed limits than highways. The new STLA AutoDrive is meant to work at lower speeds, which should reduce driver workload in stop-and-go traffic. The system enables automated driving at speeds up to 37 mph. This makes it perfect for commuters in dense urban settings. It allows drivers to temporarily engage in non-driving tasks, including watching movies, checking emails, reading books, or daydreaming. This means you could have a much more relaxing commute once you get off the highway and get closer to home or work. You could use this time to prepare for your arrival and what awaits you.

What does STLA AutoDrive do?

This new Level 3 autonomous driving technology could be the next addition to your Jeep SUV or Ram truck. The system is meant to be relatively simple: when the conditions and traffic are right, it alerts drivers of its availability. Once the driver activates this system via a physical button, the system takes over by maintaining safe distances, adjusting speed, and managing steering and braking based on traffic flow.

This new autonomous driving system is able to function at night or in light rain to be reliable and consistent. In order to maintain consistent performance, an automated sensor-cleaning system keeps the sensors clear to ensure the STLA AutoDrive can handle the driving tasks.

Does it work at higher speeds?

Once your vehicle is driving faster than 37 mph, the STLA AutoDrive system changes to a Level 2 system. This means your hands must be on the wheel and your eyes need to watch the road. It also offers Level 2+ functionality when conditions are ideal, which means you can take your hands off the wheel, but still must pay attention to the road. This system uses Adaptive Cruise Control and lane centering to make the system work at Level 2 autonomous driving.

Will this Level 3 autonomous driving system work in all markets?

This new system can be adapted for global markets, ensuring a smooth rollout. It’s been developed to comply with applicable regulations in supported markets and requires drivers to remain seated, belted, and ready to assume control when prompted. This system also respected local laws regarding driver conduct.

Can STLA AutoDrive evolve?

This new system is designed as a platform that can evolve and grow over time. Future research is already underway to unlock the ability to offer Level 3 autonomous driving at higher speeds and enhance off-road automation for some driving modes.

The STLA AutoDrive 1.0 system is meant to focus on safety, flexibility, and long-term adaptability to provide drivers with a significant step toward better driving experiences.

Limited markets allow this technology

Despite Stellantis’ assurances that this technology is fully developed and ready for deployment, the current market for Level 3 autonomous driving is very limited. This means the company isn’t launching this system yet, but as more markets begin to allow this type of driving technology, Stellantis will be ready to deploy this system.

Could there be challenges for this system?

This new system is extremely similar to Tesla’s AutoPilot system which was never made to allow the driver to look away but worked well enough that some drivers felt secure in watching movies or taking a nap while the system was activated. The Tesla system didn’t used road mapping software but utilizes sensors and cameras to position the vehicle in traffic. This new system from Stellantis essentially does the same thing.

Because this new Level 3 autonomous driving system is so similar to Tesla’s AutoPilot there could be reservations from many markets. The fact that it can only operate at speeds up to 37 mph could be its saving grace and enable Stellantis to roll it out much sooner than some might expect.

The next level of autonomous driving is here and its called STLA AutoDrive 1.0, but will it be offered in Stellantis vehicles soon? This is the million-dollar question of the day.