Once a far-off fantasy, the concept of automotive “autopilot” is quickly materializing into our everyday reality—turning vehicles into intelligent machines set to revolutionize our daily commutes. A host of automakers, Tesla included, are weaving these self-driving features into their optional equipment packages.
Understanding the levels of autonomous driving, from Level 0 to Level 5, is key; currently, most cars offer Level 2, where the car handles steering and speed but requires driver supervision, though Mercedes-Benz is pioneering Level 3 in select 2024 models for specific conditions.
This article offers a guided tour through the cutting-edge of automotive intelligence. We’ll explore the most advanced “autopilot”-like features available right now, delving into what each major manufacturer offers. From sophisticated adaptive cruise control to hands-free highway assistance, discover how these technological marvels are shaping the present and future of personal transportation, bringing us closer to a truly self-driving world.
1. **Tesla Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) Options**Tesla remains a trailblazer in advanced autonomous driving, famously branding its system as ‘Autopilot’ and ‘Full Self-Driving’ (FSD). Their innovative approach ensures vehicles continually evolve through over-the-air software updates, much like smartphones. This means Tesla cars keep improving, gaining new features and refinements as the company pushes boundaries.
Underpinning Tesla’s capabilities is a robust, evolving technological stack. Vehicles use eight cameras for a 360-degree view, augmented by front-facing radar and ultrasonic sensors. At its heart is the powerful machine learning Full Self-Driving Computer, with new vehicles shipping with the even stronger Hardware 4. All current Tesla models (Model 3, Y, S, X) support Autopilot and FSD (AP2+).
Tesla’s core features offer expansive functionality, including “best-in-class” availability on “most roads, including city streets,” and traffic control response with FSD. Adaptive Cruise Control provides “full start and stop functionality” with “excellent and generally smooth acceleration and deceleration.” “Best-in-Class lane centering,” called Autosteer, works effectively “on a variety of roads.” Automatic Lane Changing also functions on most roads. While powerful, “it’s up to the driver to pay attention and use it properly as driver monitoring is only via the steering wheel.”
2. **Rivian Autonomy Platform+**Rivian has quickly made a name with its robust advanced driver-assistance system, the Rivian Autonomy Platform. Operating at Level 2, drivers must remain vigilant. The premium Autonomy Platform+ offers enhanced features, with Gen 2 hardware (2025+ R1T/R1S) built to facilitate future hands-free and “eyes-off” driving modes, positioning Rivian as a serious autonomous contender.
Rivian’s Autonomy Platform+ boasts impressive Gen 2 hardware with 11 cameras, 5 radars, 12 ultrasonic sensors, and a driver-monitoring camera, powered by dual NVIDIA DRIVE Orin chips for ten times the computing power of the previous system, supported by their own software stack and AWS for data processing, with Driver+ available on all 2022+ R1T and R1S models.
Rivian’s core features offer a compelling package. Availability is “limited to mapped highways in North America,” with hands-free mode rolling out. Adaptive Cruise Control provides “full stop-and-go functionality,” maintaining distance. Its “Active steering to keep the vehicle centered in the lane” excels “on curves.” Driver attentiveness moved from “wheel-torque monitoring” to “infrared driver-facing camera” on Gen 2 for hands-free use. “Lane Change on Command” executes automatic lane changes. Rivian is a “strong and evolving L2 system,” prioritizing safety.
3. **General Motors Super Cruise**General Motors (GM) is a significant innovator in self-driving technology, highly regarded for its Super Cruise. Launched on the Cadillac CT6, it gained acclaim for sophistication. GM also develops fully self-driving fleet vehicles through Cruise. Super Cruise leads advanced driver assistance for personal cars, even with a limited version on the new Chevy Bolt, expanding its reach.
Super Cruise technology integrates contributions from multiple expert suppliers. It combines “Intel’s Mobileye platform” for perception with “Trimble RTX for positioning” and a network of “forward-facing cameras, side cameras, radar.” An “internal camera from FOVIO for eye tracking” rigorously monitors driver attentiveness. This blend allows for advanced hands-free driving on compatible roads.
Super Cruise is available across a growing range of GM models, including GMC, Cadillac, and Chevrolet. Core features include “full start and stop functionality” for Adaptive Cruise Control and “excellent” lane centering (not on Chevy Bolt). A standout is its “sophisticated eye-tracking using IR cameras” for attentiveness monitoring. The system also supports “Automated Lane Changes.” It’s “limited to mapped US interstates,” a deliberate safety measure. Consumer Reports rates Super Cruise highly, even over Tesla’s Autopilot, due to rigorous driver monitoring.
Car Model Information: 2018 Cadillac CT6 3.0L Twin Turbo Platinum
Name: Cadillac CT6
Manufacturer: General Motors
Production: January 2016–present
ModelYears: 2016–2020 (North America),2016–present (China)
Class: Full-size,luxury car
BodyStyle: Sedan (car)
Sp: us
Successor: Cadillac Celestiq
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, Articles with Chinese-language sources (zh), Articles with short description
Summary: The Cadillac CT6 (short for Cadillac Touring 6) is a full-size luxury car manufactured by Cadillac between 2016 and 2020 over two generations. The first generation CT6 was introduced at the 2015 New York International Auto Show and went on sale in the U.S. in March 2016. It is the first car to adopt the brand’s revised naming strategy, as well as the first rear-wheel drive full-size Cadillac sedan since the Fleetwood was discontinued in 1996.
In 2020, the CT6 was discontinued in the United States, to be replaced by the forthcoming Cadillac Celestiq liftback sedan.
Get more information about: Cadillac CT6
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Brand: Cadillac Model: CT6
Price: $26,999 Mileage: 59,119 mi.
4. **VW / Audi / Porsche Active Lane Assist & Traffic Jam Assist**The Volkswagen Group (VW, Audi, Porsche) is actively pursuing self-driving technology. Audi, in particular, touts a Level 3 system in Europe. However, regulatory concerns prevent this more advanced system from reaching the US. For now, Audi’s autopilot functions in the US align with other Level 2 offerings, focusing on sophisticated driver assistance.
Audi’s technological strategy is forward-thinking. They notably integrated “the first Lidar unit in a consumer vehicle,” starting with the A8, then the A6 and Q8. Their “new zFAS controller integrates sensor inputs into a single computing unit.” They also partner with “Mobileye (EyeQ 4 chips) for perception inputs,” leveraging external expertise.
Current Audi features, available in the A6, A8, Q8, are “Active Lane Assist with Stop & Go” and “Traffic Jam Assist.” These operate on “roads with clear markings.” Adaptive Cruise Control offers “full start and stop functionality,” but requires drivers to “press resume if stopped for longer periods.” Lane centering is described as “fair, more like Lane Keeping Assist.” Driver attentiveness requires “hands on steering wheel.” Audi’s advanced tech hasn’t “translated into a usable product for the US that’s anything beyond what other companies currently offer” in Level 2 hands-off functionality.
5. **BMW Driving Assistant Pro with Extended Traffic Jam Assistant**BMW has steadily advanced its driver assistance technologies. Starting with certain 2019 models, new technology was rolled out. Unlike some competitors, BMW’s system “is not updated over the air and must be taken into the dealer for updates,” reflecting a traditional software maintenance approach.
BMW’s Driving Assistant Pro utilizes the “Mobileye EyeQ platform” for perception, combined with “control software from ZF.” Newest models incorporate the “EyeQ 4 chip with a tri-focal camera set looking forward.” “Forward and rear radar sensors” complete the robust environmental sensing. Optional packages include an “eye monitoring camera” for added attentiveness detection.
Driving Assistant Pro is available on select models, including the “BMW X5, 7, and 3 series.” It boasts impressive availability, operating “up to 115 mph on roads with clear markings.” For low-speed congestion, “Hands-free using eye sensor under 40 mph” is a standout. Adaptive Cruise Control offers “full start and stop functionality.” However, “Lane Centering” is “Basic,” with “reports of ping-ponging between lanes.”
6. **Ford / Lincoln Co-Pilot 360 / BlueCruise**Ford offers foundational driver assistance called Co-Pilot 360, including basic stop-and-go Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and rudimentary Automatic Lane Centering (ALC) with Lane Keeping Assist (LKA). The exciting leap comes with “BlueCruise,” part of the “Co-Pilot 360 2.0.” Rolling out on the Mach-E and F-150, this iteration is designed to deliver “more advanced, Tesla-like Autopilot capabilities.”
Ford’s strategy for these advanced systems involves a partnership with “Mobileye” and its “EyeQ technology components.” Mobileye’s expertise allows Ford to efficiently integrate proven, sophisticated perception capabilities. This collaboration ensures BlueCruise benefits from a robust and reliable platform for environmental sensing and data processing.
Co-Pilot 360 and Plus versions are available on models like the “Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator” from 2023+. “BlueCruise” with “Active Driver Assist” is coming to the “Mach-E and Ford F-150,” requiring a subscription. Core functionality includes availability on “any road, well-marked lanes under good conditions.” Adaptive Cruise Control features “Full start and stop functionality.”
Its “Lane Centering” is “Good,” though it “doesn’t handle sharp turns well.” Attentiveness monitoring relies on “Hands on steering wheel detection.” Innovative “Other Features” include “Speed Sign Recognition” and “Evasive Steering assist.” The verdict: current Co-Pilot 360 is “a very capable Autopilot system” for freeway driving, and “BlueCruise” is “one to watch” for its future impact.
Car Model Information: 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium
Name: Ford Mustang Mach-E
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Production: 2021–present
ModelYears: 2021–present
Assembly: Unbulleted list
Designer: Unbulleted list
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: coupe SUV
Layout: Unbulleted list
Platform: Ford Global Electrified 1 platform
Motor: Synchronous motor#Permanent-magnet
Wheelbase: Convert
Length: Convert
Width: Convert
Height: Convert
Weight: Convert
ElectricRange: Convert
Battery: 68–98 kWh
Charging: unbulleted list
Powerout: Convert
Sp: us
ModelCode: CX727
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles needing additional references, Articles needing additional references from January 2023
Summary: The Ford Mustang Mach-E is a battery electric compact crossover SUV produced by Ford. Introduced on November 17, 2019, it went on sale in December 2020 as a 2021 model. The Mach-E is part of the Mustang series, with its name inspired by the Mach 1 variant of the first-generation Mustang. The car won the 2021 North American SUV of the Year Award.
Get more information about: Ford Mustang Mach-E
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Brand: Ford Model: Mach-E
Price: $28,988 Mileage: 8,720 mi.
7. **Kia / Hyundai Lane Following Assist (LFA) & Smart Cruise Control (SCC) / Highway Drive Assist (HDA)**
The Hyundai Motor Group (Hyundai and Kia) has become a strong contender in advanced driver assistance. While Hyundai invested in Aurora, that tech isn’t publicly released. What Kia and Hyundai offer in their Level 2 technology is impressive, often described as “best-in-class outside of advanced systems like Tesla and GM Supercruise.”
The core of this technology is an in-house system called HDA2 (Highway Driving Assist), showcasing a strong commitment to refining their autonomous features, and while they’ve previously collaborated with Intel/Mobileye, likely using their EyeQ sensors, they prioritize internal development.
These features are available across popular models, including the “Hyundai Palisade, Sonata, Kia Telluride.” Availability is broad, functioning on “Any road, well-marked lanes under good conditions.” The “Smart Cruise Control w/ Stop and Go (SCC)” provides “Full start and stop functionality,” invaluable for smooth navigation in congested traffic. Their “Lane Following Assist (LFA)” offers “Excellent” lane centering.
Attentiveness monitoring relies on “Hands on steering wheel detection.” The “Highway Drive Assist (HDA)” combines LFA and SCC, and “automatically adjusts to speed limits.” The “Blind View Monitor” shows side-view camera if an obstacle is detected. Verdict: Hyundai and Kia’s Level 2 implementations are “incredibly impressive” and “compar[e] it favorably to Tesla’s Autopilot” for basic ACC and lane centering.
8. **Volvo Pilot Assist**Volvo has always stood at the forefront of automotive safety, pioneering many advanced systems and integrating lane centering across its vehicle lineup. However, when it comes to the bleeding edge of autonomous driving, the brand has faced some hurdles, including platform changes that have temporarily delayed the rollout of more sophisticated autopilot-like features. Despite these setbacks, Volvo remains a formidable player committed to driver assistance, though with a focus on core Level 2 functionality.
Their current system, known as Pilot Assist (the latest iteration being Pilot Assist II), leverages the Mobileye EyeQ 3 platform, incorporating a front-facing camera and radar. This integrated technology provides the necessary environmental sensing for the system across all Volvo models, from the XC90 and XC60 SUVs to the XC40 and various sedans. Pilot Assist II offers full start-and-stop Adaptive Cruise Control, a boon for navigating congested traffic, and provides lane centering on any road with clear markings.
While helpful in straight stop-and-go conditions, its performance is generally rated as “fair,” with reports that it “may sometimes drift from lane,” indicating it’s most effective on relatively straight roads. Driver attentiveness is monitored by requiring hands on the steering wheel. Although future plans include transitioning to NVIDIA Orin chipsets and Luminar LiDAR for “Ride Assist,” the current Pilot Assist II is best suited for straightforward commutes, offering assistance rather than truly confident steering on winding paths.
9. **Mercedes-Benz Driver Assistance Package PLUS & Drive Pilot**Mercedes-Benz, a pioneer in adaptive cruise control, consistently equips its luxury vehicles with cutting-edge technology. Their Level 2 Driver Assistance Package PLUS includes Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Steering Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and Active Lane Change Assist. This system relies on camera and radar inputs, powered by collaborations with LG, Bosch, and NVIDIA, available across E-Class and S-Class sedans on “any roads with clear lane markings.”
The Adaptive Cruise Control offers “full start and stop functionality” and integrates map data to “adjust speed to curves” as needed. Lane centering is rated “Good with gentle curves,” providing reliable assistance, and driver attentiveness requires “hands on steering wheel.” Automated remote parking adds convenience.
Mercedes-Benz has made headlines with its groundbreaking Level 3 Drive Pilot. Offered on select 2024 S-Class and EQS Sedan models, it’s the first Level 3 system approved for consumer vehicles in the US (Nevada and California). This permits drivers to “not monitor the road full time” under specific, limited conditions. The system incorporates LiDAR, a rear camera, and redundant actuators, marking a significant leap toward hands-off, eyes-off automation within defined boundaries.
10. **Nissan / Infiniti ProPILOT Assist**Nissan and Infiniti have focused on making practical safety and self-driving technologies accessible to a broader consumer base with their integrated driver assistance system, ProPILOT Assist. This system, built upon the reliable Mobileye EyeQ platform, leverages a combination of forward camera and radar inputs to manage the vehicle’s surroundings. ProPILOT Assist is a staple feature on popular models like the Nissan Rogue, LEAF, and the Infiniti QX50.
ProPILOT Assist operates on “roads with clear markings on both sides” and is effective “above 37 MPH.” Its Adaptive Cruise Control offers “full start and stop functionality,” valuable for urban driving, though it requires the driver to “press accelerator if stopped for more than three seconds” to resume. Lane centering, described as “Fair, more like Lane Keeping Assist,” provides correctional nudges rather than consistent, precise centering, with driver attentiveness checked by requiring “hands on steering wheel.”
While ProPILOT Assist commendably brings basic autopilot features to the masses, its automated lane centering could be more refined compared to advanced systems. Nissan has, however, announced a much more sophisticated ProPILOT 2.0 for Japan, indicating future ambitions, though its US availability remains uncertain. This system serves as a helpful aid, easing commute burdens, but requires active driver engagement.
11. **Toyota / Lexus Safety Sense & CODRIVE**Toyota and its luxury division, Lexus, are well-known for their comprehensive approach to safety, integrating advanced driver assistance systems across their vehicles. Toyota offers the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) system, with its latest iteration TSS 2.0, while Lexus provides the Lexus Safety System (LSS) and Lexus CODRIVE. TSS 2.0 rolled out in popular models like the 2020 RAV4 and Corolla, and has since expanded significantly.
At the heart of their autopilot-like offerings is “Lane Tracing Assist,” designed to help the vehicle center itself within its lane, providing steering assistance to reduce driver fatigue. This technology actively tracks lane markings and subtly adjusts the vehicle’s path to maintain a central position during journeys.
While systems like Lane Tracing Assist provide helpful support, they’re not as advanced as those from Tesla, Cadillac, or BMW, meaning they may struggle in challenging scenarios, thus emphasizing that these are primarily aids requiring full driver engagement, not a completely hands-off experience.
12.Honda and Acura offer the sophisticated Honda Sensing Suite and AcuraWatch, respectively, enhancing driving safety and comfort with features like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), which are essential for semi-autonomous driving.
The Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) plays a crucial role in their semi-autonomous functionality by monitoring lane markings and providing steering input to keep the vehicle centered, although it’s noted that this system ‘isn’t particularly sophisticated and requires constant vigilance’ from the driver.
Consequently, the Honda Sensing Suite and AcuraWatch represent a solid Level 2 autonomy, offering valuable driver assistance but still demanding complete driver attention and readiness to intervene at any moment, acting as helpful co-pilots rather than fully autonomous solutions.
13. **Subaru EyeSight Technology**Subaru has cultivated a strong reputation for safety, largely thanks to its long-standing and distinct driver assistance system known as EyeSight technology. Unlike many competitors who rely solely on radar or a single camera, Subaru’s approach is uniquely characterized by its use of “two cameras above the windshield for stereoscopic vision.” This innovative setup mimics human eyes, providing a robust three-dimensional understanding of the road ahead.
Subaru’s EyeSight technology is a comprehensive system that includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) for maintaining speed and distance, alongside a basic Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), utilizing stereoscopic vision to effectively detect vehicles, pedestrians, and lane markings for enhanced safety.
While Subaru’s EyeSight technology does a “decent job” in providing these core driver assistance functions, the context notes that “it isn’t as robust as other systems that use a combination of cameras and radar.” This suggests that while its stereoscopic vision is effective, the absence of radar in its primary sensing array might limit its performance in certain scenarios. Nevertheless, EyeSight remains a highly valued and effective system for enhancing safety and reducing driver workload on the road.
14. **Comma.ai – The DIY Autopilot Solution**For tech-savvy automotive enthusiasts, Comma.ai offers a unique DIY autopilot solution that stands apart from traditional car manufacturers. Their “DIY autopilot kit,” the Comma Two, works with open-source “openpilot” software to “supercharge” newer-model vehicles with existing autopilot capabilities. This innovative approach allows users to significantly enhance their car’s intelligence without waiting for manufacturer updates.
The genius of Comma.ai lies in its embrace of advanced machine learning and neural network capabilities. The continuously refined openpilot software learns from real-world driving data, providing exceptionally sophisticated driver assistance by tapping into a vehicle’s existing sensors and controls. This allows owners to upgrade their car’s ability to steer, accelerate, and brake autonomously, often surpassing factory-installed Level 2 systems on compatible vehicles.
Comma.ai represents a fascinating niche, empowering enthusiasts to push the boundaries of their vehicles’ self-driving potential. It offers advanced machine learning benefits typically reserved for proprietary systems, providing a truly cutting-edge and customizable autopilot experience. While it requires technical comfort and engagement with a community-driven platform, for those who embrace it, Comma.ai provides a glimpse into the future of open-source autonomous driving innovation.
As we step into this thrilling new era, the road to full autonomy is intricate and multifaceted. Integrated manufacturer systems, groundbreaking Level 3 technology, and even do-it-yourself solutions are all shaping what’s to come—each stride bringing us nearer to a driving experience that transcends mere travel. It’s a shift toward a smarter, safer, and more liberating mode of mobility, one that promises constant evolution and an engaging journey for every driver.
