2018 Mercedes S Class Drives Off Assembly Line With Autopilot – Video
The new S-Class, which celebrated its world premiere in the middle of April at the Auto Shanghai motor show, and will be launched in Europe from the middle of July onwards, represents the automotive benchmark for efficiency and comfort. One of its highlights is an all-new and highly efficient engine range with a series of new technologies for electrification of the powertrain. “ Intelligent Drive” takes another step towards autonomous driving. And the unchallenged leader in the premium segment sets new standards in the interior with regard to comfort and wellness.
Several new engines are planned for the new S-Class: in-line six cylinders as diesel and petrol engines as well as a new V8 biturbo petrol engine. In addition, Mercedes-Benz plans a plug-in hybrid with an electric range of about 50 kilometres. At the same time, ground-breaking technologies such as the 48-volt Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) and the electric booster compressor (eZV) celebrate their world premiere.
The top-of-the-range model takes another big step towards autonomous driving and elevates Intelligent Drive to the next level. Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC and Active Steer Assist now provide even more comfortable support, helping the driver to keep a safe distance and to steer. The speed is now adjusted automatically ahead of curves or junctions.
Now that the technical prerequisites for automated driving from the assembly line to the loading area have been put in place, the Sindelfingen plant is currently piloting the possible use of the system for series production and investigating its further potential. The finished vehicles are currently driven from the assembly halls to the loading car parks by members of staff. A shuttle service then brings the employees back to their starting point. The pilot test provides an opportunity to gather practical experience for the future of “autonomous driving” on public roads, which can be used in for further development.