Stellantis Unveils Hands-Free, Eyes-Off Autonomous Driving Tech
Stellantis, parent company of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram and ten other global brands, has unveiled its first in-house-developed automated driving system offering hands-free and eyes-off (SAE Level 3) functionality.
STLA AutoDrive, as it’s called, is at the heart of the automaker’s technology strategy, alongside STLA Brain and STLA Smart Cockpit, which aims to make future vehicles smarter, more connected and more UX-focused.
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The system enables automated driving with no driver supervision at speeds up to 60 km/h. It’s designed for stop-and-go traffic and allow drivers to temporarily engage in non-driving tasks such as watching a movie, catching up on emails, reading a book or simply looking out the window.
“Helping drivers make the best use of their time is a priority,” said Ned Curic, Stellantis Chief Engineering and Technology Officer. “By handling routine driving tasks, STLA AutoDrive will enhance the driving experience, making time behind the wheel more efficient and enjoyable.”
How Does it Work?
Demonstrated using a Jeep Wagoneer S, STLA AutoDrive operates pretty much like any other hands-free driving tech. When traffic and environmental conditions align, drivers are notified that STLA AutoDrive is available. Once activated by a physical button, the system takes control, maintaining safe distances, adjusting speed, and managing steering and braking seamlessly based on traffic flow.
Stellantis also said that the advanced sensors around the vehicle ensure high-precision awareness and reliable operation even at night or in challenging weather conditions such as light rain or road spray. How? An automated sensor-cleaning system keeps critical components clear at all times.
At higher speeds (60 km/h and faster), STLA AutoDrive still offers the convenience of adaptive cruise control and lane centering functions in Level 2 (hands-on) and Level 2+ (hands-off, eyes-on) modes.
Ready to Roll?
This is version 1.0 of the system developed by Stellantis. Since it is cloud-connected, over-the-air updates and real-time data integration will enable continuous enhancements for optimized performance.
The automaker announced that STLA AutoDrive is ready for deployment and can be adapted across Stellantis-branded vehicles for global markets where SAE Level 3 autonomous driving is authorized. To be clear, it requires drivers to remain seated, belted and ready to assume control when prompted.
No such vehicle is currently available in Canada. Those that are capable of SAE Level 1 or Level 2 autonomous driving require drivers to keep their focus on the road and be ready to take over control at all times.
In April of last year, British Columbia updated its Motor Vehicle Act to bring into force a prohibition against operation of self-driving vehicles (SAE Levels 3-5) unless provincially authorized through a pilot project.
