Mercedes-Benz has become the first international carmaker to receive approval for Level 4 automated driving tests on designated urban roads and highways in Beijing. This Level 4 testing is part of Mercedes‑Benz China’s technology research initiatives, focused on advancing automated driving system software and hardware. Earlier, at the end of 2023, Mercedes‑Benz was among the first automakers to gain approval for Level 3 testing in Beijing.
The project is dedicated to studying multi-sensor perception in high-level automated driving, verifying system performance under diverse conditions, and exploring deep integration of perception technologies. Two specially upgraded Mercedes‑Benz S‑Class vehicles will be used as Level 4 automated driving test cars, equipped with a comprehensive sensor array that includes LiDAR, radar sensors, and cameras.
These test vehicles are also fitted with redundant systems to enhance safety. In busy urban areas, the vehicles are designed to participate in regular traffic and efficiently handle complex maneuvers like unprotected left turns, navigating roundabouts, U-turns, and parking. On highways, the vehicles can perform automatic lane changes when a slower vehicle is ahead and pass through toll stations. In extreme situations, the vehicle will execute a minimal risk maneuver, finding a safe location to stop. Level 4 represents highly automated driving, the second-highest stage in autonomous driving, where the vehicle can perform driving tasks in defined scenarios without requiring the driver to be ready to take over. Mercedes‑Benz and WeRide jointly received Level 4 automated driving testing approval from the Beijing High-Level Automated Driving Demonstration Zone Office.
“Since we invented the automobile 138 years ago, Mercedes‑Benz has continuously set new global standards with innovative technologies. The current development and introduction of automated driving systems is redefining the role of the automobile. We offer more than 40 driver assistance systems, including enhanced Level 2 features, and are the first car maker with a Level 3 system in the market. 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.”
said Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes‑Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer, Development & Procurement
“Mercedes‑Benz China is at the forefront of global innovation, with outstanding talent and partners providing excellent opportunities for the company’s advanced technology research. Obtaining approval for Level 4 automated driving road testing in Beijing will help Mercedes‑Benz to further accelerate automated driving technology. In recent years, Mercedes‑Benz has continuously increased its local R&D investment. 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 at ‘China Speed’.”
added Oliver Löcher, Senior Executive Vice President of Mercedes‑Benz Group China Ltd., Head of Mercedes‑Benz China Research, Development and Procurement
