LOS ANGELES—Mercedes-Benz has never shied away from new technology. Historically, the carmaker has been an early adopter and developer of systems such as antilock brakes, stability control, airbags, and adaptive cruise control. With its EQ line of all-electric vehicles well underway, Mercedes-Benz is now making a push toward automated driving.

Mercedes-Benz’s Drive Pilot is a step on the way to the fully autonomous robotaxis that many companies are developing, but it is still just a step; we’re not there yet.

Mercedes-Benz said it will launch its Level 3 automated driving technology in the Western U.S. in the fourth quarter. To inform and empower current and future business leaders by providing the insights, knowledge and connections they need to thrive in a rapidly changing industry.

Drive Pilot is the first publicly-available system to achieve Level 3 on the 5-level “autonomous vehicle” scale, allowing drivers to completely disengage from driving