Dodge, Jeep, and Alfa Romeo May Achieve Level 3 Autonomy Before Tesla Thanks to New STLA AutoDrive | Carscoops
Stellantis has stated that its new driving technology is not yet ready for widespread use, but eventually, it will allow drivers to read books or watch videos while driving.
15 hours ago
by Stephen Rivers
Stellantis has introduced AutoDrive, a Level 3 system designed to let drivers engage in other activities.
Drivers will not be required to watch the road or keep their hands on the steering wheel.
Although the technology is said to be ready, it is not yet available for use.
STLA AutoDrive aims to provide hands-free and eyes-off driving for various brands under the Stellantis umbrella, including Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Alfa Romeo, Peugeot, and Fiat—eventually. This is part of Stellantis' new Level 3 autonomous driving technology. While the automaker asserts that the system is fully developed, it has decided to hold off on launching it for what seem to be unusual reasons.
Currently, Level 3 semi-autonomous driving is a step above what most vehicles offer today. Level 2 systems, which are present in cars from brands like Tesla, Ford, and Hyundai, can manage lane-centering, speed adjustment, and allow for brief hands-free driving. However, these systems still necessitate that drivers keep their eyes on the road at all times, unlike Level 3 systems.
Level 3 Autonomy: Freedom and Considerations
These systems permit drivers to engage in non-driving activities as long as they are prepared to take control when requested by the system. For instance, one could watch a movie or read a book. “Helping drivers make the best use of their time is a priority,” stated Ned Curic, Stellantis Chief Engineering and Technology Officer. “By managing routine driving tasks, STLA AutoDrive will improve the driving experience, making the time spent on the road more efficient and enjoyable.”
Interestingly, Stellantis made this announcement while also opting to delay the technology’s release. “The technology is fully developed and ready for deployment,” company spokesperson Dan Reid told The Verge.
“However, the current market for Level 3 autonomous driving is very limited. We have made the strategic decision not to launch it at this time. Once the market opens up and becomes more receptive, we will proceed with introducing this advanced technology,” Reid explained.
In essence, Stellantis is eager to announce the technology, but not yet prepared to allow its use. Meanwhile, competitors like Mercedes are already offering Level 3 capabilities on a limited basis in select areas.
There’s also an intriguing detail from the announcement video worth mentioning. The automaker claims that upcoming updates could allow AutoDrive to function off-road. While the experience of off-roading typically involves driving oneself, this suggests Stellantis has ambitious plans for enabling AutoDrive in challenging terrains.
Dodge, Jeep, and Alfa Romeo May Achieve Level 3 Autonomy Before Tesla Thanks to New STLA AutoDrive | Carscoops
Stellantis indicates that its latest driving technology isn’t fully prepared for widespread use yet, but it will eventually enable drivers to read a book or watch videos while driving.