Mercedes-Benz Leads The Way With Beijing’s First Level 4 Autonomous Testing Approval

Mercedes-Benz has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first international automaker to receive approval for Level 4 automated driving tests on designated urban roads and highways in Beijing. This approval, issued by the Beijing High-Level Automated Driving Demonstration Zone Office, allows Mercedes-Benz to test its advanced automated driving systems in real-world conditions.

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The testing involves two specially equipped Mercedes-Benz S-Class vehicles, fitted with a range of sensors, including LiDAR, radar and cameras, designed to navigate complex urban and highway environments. These vehicles are also equipped with redundant systems to enhance safety during testing.

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Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes‑Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer, Development & Procurement, said, “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.”

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The primary objective of this project is to advance the development of automated driving system software and hardware. The testing will cover a variety of driving scenarios, including unprotected left turns, roundabouts, U-turns, and parking in urban settings, as well as automatic lane changes and toll station navigation on highways. In extreme situations, the vehicles are programmed to perform minimal risk maneuvers to safely stop.

This Level 4 testing represents the second-highest stage of automated driving, where the vehicle can operate independently without the driver needing to take control under defined conditions.

Oliver Löcher, Senior Executive Vice President of Mercedes‑Benz Group China Ltd., Head of Mercedes‑Benz China Research, Development and Procurement, said, “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'.”