Mercedes-Benz has become the first automotive manufacturer to receive nationwide approval in Germany for special marker lights designed to indicate when a vehicle is operating in conditionally automated driving mode (SAE Level 3).
The approval, granted for testing purposes until July 2028, reinforces Germany’s position as a global leader in autonomous vehicle regulation.
The turquoise marker lights, integrated into the front, rear, and side indicators, will illuminate continuously when DRIVE PILOT is activated. This innovation aims to enhance road safety by helping other road users, traffic authorities, and law enforcement easily recognize the vehicle’s automated driving status. Turquoise was chosen for its high visibility and distinctiveness from standard vehicle and traffic lighting, aligning with international standards such as SAE J3134, UNECE, and China Compulsory Certification.
Markus Schäfer, CTO, Mercedes-Benz Group AG, highlighted the significance of this approval, stating, “We take a holistic approach to automated driving development. The use of marker lights for vehicle-to-surroundings communication is the next evolutionary milestone. This special exemption acknowledges our efforts to promote trust and acceptance in this technology.”
The special exemption, issued by the Stuttgart Regional Council, will support real-world testing, generating insights to help shape future legislation for mass adoption. Mercedes-Benz has already received similar approvals in Nevada and California, where testing began in late 2023.
In addition to this innovation, Mercedes-Benz has enhanced DRIVE PILOT, enabling conditionally automated driving at speeds of up to 95 km/h on right-hand highway lanes in Germany, making it the world's fastest Level 3 system in a production vehicle.
By securing regulatory approval and advancing autonomous driving technology, Mercedes-Benz is once again setting the global benchmark, bringing the future of automated mobility closer to reality.
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