What We’re Reading
Mercedes-Benz gets the OK to begin testing its Level 4 autonomous driving tech in China (Electrek, August 6, 2024)
Mercedes-Benz has become the first international automaker to be approved by local regulators in Shanghai to begin testing its SAE Level 4 autonomous driving system. Mercedes has been a leader in the advancement of autonomous driving technology, with its Level 3 “Drive Pilot” system as the only Level 3 non-robotaxi vehicle offered in the United States. Unlike Level 2 driving systems, like Tesla’s Full Self-Driving and Autopilot systems, Mercedes’ Level 3 system takes full control of driving situations, and also accepts full liability when the technology is enabled.
In Shanghai, Mercedes has been approved to begin testing its Level 4 driving system on limited local roads and highways. With a L4 system, the vehicle is essentially doing all of the work, including parking and reversing. Carmakers XPeng and Tesla have plans to introduce Level 4 driving systems to China’s roads shortly, but for now, it seems Mercedes-Benz is getting a head start.
US to Call for Limits on Chinese Vehicle Software Over Data Security Concerns (BNN Bloomberg, August 6, 2024)
The US is escalating its tech confrontation with China by planning to restrict sales of Chinese vehicle software, targeting autonomous and internet-connected vehicles due to security concerns. The Biden administration, responding to a cybersecurity review initiated in March, aims to limit the use and testing of Chinese technology in these vehicles. This move addresses risks from devices in modern cars, which connect to the internet and are vulnerable to hacking. The restrictions will hinder Chinese companies from collecting data on US drivers and prevent Chinese suppliers from dominating the US market. The Commerce Department will enforce these measures, allowing a phase-in period for automakers to adjust. US officials are coordinating with international partners and have engaged in discussions with China. The measures will initially focus on software and systems that collect vehicle data, with potential future restrictions on hardware. The aim is to secure US automotive supply chains and mitigate national security risks.
Tesla sued by family of motorcyclist killed in Autopilot crash (Yahoo News, August 2, 2024)
Tesla is in the news again as another wrongful death lawsuit was filed against the automaker. The parents of Landon Embery are suing after their son was hit on his motorcycle by a Model 3 on a Utah highway in 2022. The Tesla’s driver had Autopilot engaged at 75-80 mph.
The complaint states, "A reasonably prudent driver, or adequate auto braking system, would have, and could have slowed or stopped without colliding with the motorcycle”. This lawsuit continues to add to the scrutiny of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving and Autopilot capabilities.