- The United Nations has streamlined approval for autonomous driving tech.
- BMW’s iX3 has been given the thumbs up and can offer hands-free driving.
- The system operates at speeds up to 81 mph and can be used in multiple countries.
While Mercedes is working on an S-Class that doesn’t need a driver, their arch rival has become the first German automaker to receive approval for the new UN Regulation on Driver Control Assistance Systems (DCAS).
The thumbs up was given to the iX3, and the approval means the company will be able to offer the hands-free Motorway Assistant function in numerous countries.
More: The iX3 Is BMW’s Neue Klasse Future And It Carries A Surprising Price Tag
This has been one of the big problems impacting autonomous vehicles, as there’s a patchwork of regulations. As a result, some systems might be fine in Germany, but not elsewhere.
As the company explained, the “DCAS regulation provides an international legal framework for innovative Level 2 driver assistance systems with a focus on customer safety.”
BMW added that they used to have an exemption from Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority for the previous version of Motorway Assistant, but with DCAS approval, they no longer need exemptions and can offer the system throughout Europe and in other ECE countries.
As a refresher, Motorway Assistant allows drivers to travel hands-free at speeds up to 81 mph (130 km/h). However, since it’s a Level 2 system, they need to pay attention and be ready to intervene if needed.
While that’s not unusual, Motorway Assistant can automatically change lanes, and all the driver has to do is glance to confirm it’s ok. The system can also suggest lane changes in preparation for an upcoming exit.
In Germany, the crossover goes even further as there’s City Assistant for urban driving. At launch, it will enable the vehicle to automatically stop at red lights as well as resume driving when the light changes.
That’s pretty slick, and BMW noted additional functions for urban driving will be rolled out as part of over-the-air updates. This promises to make trips into the city even more relaxing over time.
