- Low-Light and Night Functionality: Improved performance in various lighting conditions.
- Limited Speed Support: Beyond 37 mph, the system reverts to adaptive cruise control and lane-departure assist.
STLA AutoDrive combines Stellantis's advanced technologies:
- In-House ‘Brain’: The central processing unit responsible for operations.
- Smart Cockpit: The user interface that facilitates driver interaction.
- Sophisticated Sensors: Designed to detect surroundings and ensure safety.
Stellantis categorizes its self-driving advancements according to levels L2, L2+, and L3, as per SAE standards. It’s important to note that:
- L2+ remains a topic of debate since it’s not officially recognized.
The company hopes to extend its hands-off functionality to 59 mph, although specific details regarding the timeline, vehicle models, or pricing are still undisclosed.
Other automotive players are making strides as well:
- BYD's God’s-Eye suite has been introduced in new models, including the affordable BYD Seagull, priced at around £11,000 ($14,000).
- Tesla's Autopilot has seen its initial price drop from $15,000 to $8,000, alongside the introduction of a subscription service.
Stellantis's STLA AutoDrive promises to redefine urban driving, offering a more relaxed experience for drivers. While the technology continues to develop, these advancements in automation point toward a future of more convenient city travel—equipping drivers with innovative features while addressing the challenges inherent in traditional driving. The race for autonomous innovation is far from over, with Stellantis and its competitors continuously pushing the limits of what’s possible in automotive technology.
