The California Division of Motor Automobiles has authorized Mercedes-Benz’s automated driving system on designated highways beneath sure situations with out the energetic management of a driver.

California is one in all Tesla’s largest markets, accounting for 16 % of the automaker’s international deliveries final 12 months, in line with Reuters calculations.

However Mercedes beat Tesla to grow to be the primary automaker to obtain authorization to promote or lease automobiles with a Stage 3 automated driving system to the general public in California. Earlier this 12 months, the German automaker additionally acquired an approval to deploy automated driving programs on Nevada’s roads.

The approval was granted to Mercedes’ Drive Pilot system that enables drivers to legally take their eyes off the wheel however they have to be accessible to renew management if wanted.

The system can solely function on highways throughout daylight at speeds not exceeding 40 miles (64 km) per hour, the DMV mentioned.

Mercedes mentioned in a press release it is going to make the automated driving system accessible within the U.S. as an choice for its S-Class sedan and EQS SUV autos.

The primary deliveries for these fashions are anticipated later this 12 months.

Different programs at the moment on public roads equivalent to Tesla’s Autopilot or Common Motors’ Tremendous Cruise are categorised Stage 2, which deal with some driving duties however require drivers to concentrate always.

Tesla calls its Stage 2 driving assistant system Full Self-Driving and says a driver should consistently supervise the function and intervene as wanted to keep up a secure operation.

The allow grants Mercedes permission to supply its system on California highways within the Bay Space, Central Valley, Los Angeles, Sacramento and San Diego and on interstate freeway connecting Southern California to Nevada.