Daimler-Benz to accelerate intelligent transportation with the launch of their new all-electric CLA model.
Mercedes-Benz is making significant strides in the autonomous driving sphere, particularly in China, where it has been collaborating closely with local teams and suppliers for the development of advanced intelligent driving systems.
The German automaker's latest venture, the all-electric CLA model, set to begin production in April 2025, will feature an urban navigation assistance system. This system, provided by Momenta, a Chinese developer of intelligent driving solutions, marks Mercedes-Benz's first foray into map-free navigation assistance in urban driving scenarios.
The new CLA model will be based on Mercedes-Benz's second all-electric platform, MMA. It will also incorporate a combination of LiDAR, millimeter-wave radar, and cameras, with hardware configurations significantly improved and software developed by local suppliers.
Mercedes-Benz has confirmed the use of Nvidia's Orin chip for the new all-electric CLA model, further enhancing its autonomous capabilities. The cabin of the CLA model will feature Mercedes-Benz's self-developed MB.OS operating system.
In a move to further localize intelligent driving features, Mercedes-Benz is considering the localization of features rated at or above Level 2. This decision comes as the company has obtained commercial licenses for Level 3 autonomous driving and Level 4 unmanned parking in Germany since 2021.
Mercedes-Benz's R&D team in China played a crucial role in the development of highway navigation assistance for the new E-class long-wheelbase version, completing the project in just 12 months.
The company is also working closely with its Chinese joint venture MB.CHARGE and technology partner Alpitronic on intelligent vehicle management and high-performance charging infrastructure for the new all-electric CLA model in China.
Winning the Chinese market is fundamental for Mercedes-Benz to succeed globally, as the Chinese market accounts for one-third of Mercedes-Benz's sales. This strategic focus on China is evident in the global promotion of the autonomous parking function, led by the Chinese team, which was later promoted globally.
However, Mercedes-Benz is not the only player in the autonomous driving market in China. Competitors such as Xiaomi and Aito are also making strides. Xiaomi's SU7, challenging Mercedes-Benz's C-class models, will equip urban navigate-on-autopilot (NOA) feature in August 2024. Aito's M7 model, competing with Mercedes-Benz's mid- to large-sized SUVs, already supports map-free navigation assistance in urban driving scenarios.
As the race for autonomous driving technology intensifies, it is expected that future high-level features in China may be entirely developed by local teams or suppliers. Mercedes-Benz's collaboration with Momenta and its focus on localization are indicative of this trend, as the company aims to stay at the forefront of the autonomous driving revolution.
