BMW has received approval to integrate a new advanced autonomous driving system in its vehicles, marking a significant milestone in the field of automated driving. The German automaker announced on Tuesday that its new BMW 7 Series will offer a combination of level 2 and level 3 autonomous driving capabilities, initially available only in Germany.
Blending Level 2 and Level 3 Autonomy
The new system merges BMW’s highway assistant (level 2) with its personal pilot (level 3) features. Level 2 autonomy allows drivers to remove their hands from the steering wheel at speeds up to 130 kilometers per hour, provided they remain attentive to the road. This function is limited to lanes physically separated from oncoming traffic.
At level 3, the technology enables drivers to temporarily divert their attention from the road, allowing for secondary activities such as making phone calls, reading, sending messages, working, or streaming videos at speeds up to 60 kilometers per hour. This feature is particularly useful during traffic jams.
Advancing in the Global Autonomous Driving Race
BMW’s advancement follows competitor Mercedes-Benz, which has already introduced level 3 functions in Germany and parts of the United States. Meanwhile, companies in China and the United States are testing fully self-driving robotaxis under strict conditions.
Germany has been at the forefront of autonomous driving legislation, becoming the first country to establish a legal framework for the nationwide introduction of self-driving cars in 2021. To further propel development, Germany signed a declaration of intent with China in April 2023 to collaborate on automated and connected driving.
Collaboration for Safer Mobility
“The technology is associated with the hope of safer and more efficient mobility in the future,” said German Transport Minister Volker Wissing. He emphasized that the industry is now in a decisive phase of bringing autonomous driving from laboratories onto the road.
The cooperation between Germany and China signals a commitment to advancing autonomous driving technologies on a global scale, potentially impacting markets and regulations in Asia and beyond.
Implications for Asia and Global Markets
As Germany collaborates with China, developments in autonomous driving may influence Asia’s economic and technological landscape. Entrepreneurs, investors, and market analysts will be watching closely for new business opportunities and market trends stemming from this partnership.
For global readers and news enthusiasts, this advancement underscores the dynamic role of Asia and Europe in shaping the future of mobility.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
