Here are some of the companies forging ahead.
However, most near-term plans involve level three autonomy that requires the driver to always remain vigilant.
Mercedes-Benz
Daimler
Intelligent Drive system cars almost self-driving.
Dong Wenjie / Moment / Getty
Test vehicles have reached level 5 autonomy.
Most testing has taken place in Europe, not the US.
Self-driving vehicle plans only include level 3 autonomy.
Daimler
Intelligent Drive, available in some Mercedes vehicles, offers a close approximation of a self-driving experience.
However, it still requires constant supervision from a human driver.
GM Cruise
Cruise LLC
Cruise Automation acquisition.
Cruise LLC
Driverless functionality with Super Cruise system.
Had fallen behind competition in the past.
More accidents than competitors in California.
Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images
Super Cruise geofenced to approved highways.
This system only works on highways and relies on extensive mapping work done by GM.
Waymo
Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images
More testing miles in more cities than the competition.
Tesla
Operates fully autonomous vehicles.
Fewer accidents than competitors.
Still has obstacles to overcome.
Traffic light and correct lane issues.
In 2023, Waymo completed over 700,000 trips without a human driver.
Tesla
Software updates enhance Autopilot capabilities.
High-profile accidents raise safety questions.
Full Self-Driving only optional upgrade.
Tesla, founded in 2003, is more than just an electric car company.
They’ve been at the forefront of developing technology that could revolutionize how we drive.
Beyond focusing on sustainable energy, Tesla has invested heavily in advanced driver assistance systems and autonomous driving.
Tesla’s Autopilot system is a prime example of its commitment to self-driving tech.
