[bsa_pro_ad_space id=14]
The Mercedes-Benz of tomorrow may be able to drive itself, thanks – in part – to new technology currently undergoing development on public Australian roads.
EXCLUSIVE: German car giant Mercedes-Benz is quietly testing the next generation of autonomous driving technology on public roads in Australia, Drive understands.
A modified Mercedes-Benz S-Class been spied several times near Sydney over the past three months, and was last week snapped at Emu Plains train station.
The flagship luxury sedan appears to be fitted with a range of extra lidar and radar sensors on its grille, roof, rear bumper, front facia, and side panels.
A spokesperson for Mercedes-Benz confirmed it is using the vehicle for a range of international trials, in cooperation with US software firm Nvidia.
“The specific car you have provided photos of is part of a worldwide fleet of data collection vehicles currently testing our next generation [tech],” the spokesperson said.
“Automated driving systems, such as those offered in our driving assistance package, must be able to handle a large number of situations reliably and safely.
“The development of such systems is complex … With such test drives, the local information about infrastructure and traffic habits is collected.
“Country-specific peculiarities in infrastructure, traffic rules and the behaviour of other road users place very different demands on the sensors and algorithms of the vehicle.”
The standard Mercedes-Benz S-Class already features some of the most advanced driving tech available today, and is able to steer, accelerate, and brake by itself using inbuilt sensors.
With the addition of least 12 extra lidar and radar sensors, this suggests the modified vehicle is likely trialing advanced systems and near-complete autonomy.
Drive understands the car is not currently permitted to drive unoccupied on public roads, and a qualified engineer remains behind the wheel at all times.
It’s currently unclear how many other cars Mercedes-Benz is currently testing Down Under, however the brand says it currently has 175 research vehicles stationed across the globe.
Most large manufacturers – including Toyota, General Motors, BMW, and Tesla – are developing some form of ‘self-driving’ system, however none are yet legal for consumer use in any major country.
Autonomous tech has faced several roadblocks in recent years, with safety, legal, ethical, and accountability concerns preventing widespread roll-out.
He has maintained a primary focus on industry trends, autonomous technology, electric vehicle regulations, and local environmental policy.
As the newest addition to the Drive team, William was brought onboard for his attention to detail, writing skills, and strong work ethic.
Despite writing for a diverse range of outlets – including the Australian Financial Review, Robb Report, and Property Observer – since completing his media degree at Macquarie University, William has always had a passion for cars.
Read more about William Davis 
[bsa_pro_ad_space id=15]