Mercedes-Benz has been approved to conduct Level 4 automated driving testing on designated roads and highways in Beijing, focusing on the research and development of multi-sensor perception and system performance for advanced autonomous driving systems. This initiative is part of the company’s broader technology research efforts in the region, with the goal of exploring the integration of perception and control mechanisms in autonomous vehicles.
Markus Schäfer, member of the board of management of Mercedes‑Benz Group and CTO of development and procurement, said, “With the new approval for testing Level 4 technology in the Beijing area, for later use in privately owned vehicles worldwide, Mercedes‑Benz leaps forward on the way to autonomous driving. Once again, we are setting the new industry benchmark – at China speed.”
The company’s L4 test vehicles are designed to handle most driving tasks independently, without the need for driver intervention. Equipped with an array of sensors and redundant systems for enhanced safety, the company says these vehicles are capable of executing maneuvers in busy urban environments, such as parking, making U-turns, navigating traffic circles and performing unprotected left turns.
On expressways, the vehicles can autonomously change lanes when the vehicle ahead slows down and can pass through toll stations. In extreme situations, the vehicles are programmed to follow a minimal risk strategy, safely stopping in a secure location, according to Mercedes.
Oliver Löcher, senior executive VP of Mercedes‑Benz Group China, said, “Obtaining approval for Level 4 automated driving road testing in Beijing will help Mercedes‑Benz to further accelerate automated driving technology. Through a series of advanced research projects, the local R&D team is committed to bringing intelligent luxury products and services to the needs of Chinese customers.
Prior to Mercedes-Benz receiving approval to conduct L4 urban and expressway testing, the Chinese capital issued the “Beijing Intelligent Connected Vehicle Policy Pilot Zone Conditional Autonomous Driving Function Vehicle Road Test Management Rules (Trial)” in December 2023.
