Stellantis has developed AutoDrive, an advanced hands-free, eyes-off driving system, but its launch is on hold due to market limitations and safety concerns. Find out what this means for the future of autonomous driving.
Stellantis Pauses Launch of Its Advanced AutoDrive System
Stellantis, the global automotive giant behind Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge, and other major brands, has put the brakes on its new AutoDrive system—a hands-free, eyes-off driving feature designed for speeds up to 37 mph. While fully developed and ready for deployment, the company has opted not to launch it just yet, citing market immaturity and regulatory uncertainties.
The system, dubbed STLA AutoDrive 1.0, was designed for stop-and-go traffic conditions, allowing drivers to temporarily shift their focus to non-driving tasks such as watching movies, reading emails, or catching up on work. However, despite its sophisticated technology and potential convenience, safety advocates and legal experts have raised serious concerns about its reliability and liability in the event of accidents.
What is Stellantis’ AutoDrive System?
According to Stellantis, AutoDrive would provide a Level 3 automation experience, meaning the vehicle could take full control under specific conditions, but drivers would still need to be ready to intervene if necessary.
The system is designed to:
- Maintain safe distances from other vehicles
- Adjust speed according to traffic flow
- Manage steering and braking seamlessly
- Continuously monitor surroundings through an advanced sensor suite
- Potentially receive over-the-air updates for future enhancements
While Stellantis claims that AutoDrive’s real-world performance is smooth and human-like, critics worry that drivers may become overly reliant on the system and fail to react promptly in emergencies.
Why Stellantis Decided to Delay AutoDrive’s Release
Despite having a completed system, Stellantis has announced that it will not move forward with its launch at this time. Company spokesperson Frank Matyok explained:
“Our Level 3 technology is fully developed and ready for deployment, but the current market for autonomous driving at this level remains very limited. We have made the strategic decision not to launch it at this time. Once the market matures and conditions become more favorable, we will evaluate the path to commercialization.”
The decision follows increased scrutiny of self-driving technologies, particularly after high-profile incidents involving Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) and Ford’s BlueCruise systems, which have been linked to fatal accidents. Safety experts warn that promoting such systems as “hands-free” and “eyes-off” may mislead consumers into believing they are safer than they actually are.
Liability and Safety Concerns Surrounding AutoDrive
Legal experts argue that unless automakers take full liability for accidents that occur while the system is engaged, drivers will still bear legal responsibility for crashes, making these features more of a risk than a convenience.
According to Sam Abuelsamid, a vice president at Telemetry Insights:
“Consumers should not even consider using such a system unless the automaker accepts liability for when things go wrong. Mercedes-Benz, for instance, accepts liability for crashes under their Drive Pilot system, but Tesla does not, leaving the driver accountable.”
Michael Brooks, executive director of the Center for Auto Safety, warns that drivers could become too reliant on such automation and may be ill-prepared to take control in critical situations.
“When an unavoidable crash happens, drivers who have bought into ‘eyes-free, hands-free’ marketing may not be sufficiently engaged to react in time.”
The Future of AutoDrive and Autonomous Driving at Stellantis
Despite the delay, Stellantis continues to invest in automated driving technologies, with the potential to roll out enhanced versions of AutoDrive in the future. Future updates could allow:
- Hands-free and eyes-off driving at speeds up to 59 mph
- Off-road automation for Jeep and RAM models
- Integration with next-generation AI and predictive driving algorithms
However, the timeline for any such launch remains uncertain, as regulatory frameworks and public trust will play a crucial role in determining the viability of the technology.
FAQs About Stellantis’ AutoDrive System
Q: What is Stellantis’ AutoDrive system?
A: AutoDrive is a Level 3 autonomous driving system designed for stop-and-go traffic at speeds up to 37 mph, allowing drivers to engage in non-driving activities temporarily.
Q: Why did Stellantis delay the launch of AutoDrive?
A: The company cited limited market demand, regulatory concerns, and safety considerations as reasons for not launching the system at this time.
Q: How does AutoDrive compare to Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) and Mercedes-Benz Drive Pilot?
A: While Tesla’s FSD is still in beta testing and requires driver supervision, Mercedes-Benz’s Drive Pilot is currently the only Level 3 system in the U.S. market that accepts manufacturer liability for crashes. Stellantis has not yet confirmed if it will assume liability for accidents involving AutoDrive.
Q: Will AutoDrive be available in the future?
A: Stellantis has indicated that the system is fully developed and may be launched once market conditions improve and safety concerns are addressed.
Q: Are there any alternatives to AutoDrive currently available?
A: Yes, Mercedes-Benz offers Drive Pilot in select models, and BMW is also developing a Level 3 system for European markets. Other companies like Tesla and Ford provide Level 2 driver assistance but require constant driver attention.
Conclusion
Stellantis’ decision to delay the launch of AutoDrive reflects growing caution within the automotive industry regarding self-driving technologies and liability concerns. While the system has the potential to revolutionize daily commutes, safety experts remain wary of over-reliance on automation.
For now, the future of AutoDrive 1.0 remains uncertain, but as autonomous technology matures and regulations evolve, Stellantis may revisit its deployment strategy. Until then, consumers should remain vigilant and informed about the risks and limitations of self-driving systems.
