When will Nvidia's L2 driver-assist system be available?

Nvidia plans to release Level 2 highway and urban driving capabilities in the first half of 2026.

How does Nvidia's system compare to Tesla's Full Self-Driving?

Nvidia claims its system is very close to Tesla's FSD, with comparable performance in head-to-head city driving tests.

What is Nvidia's long-term goal for autonomous driving?

Nvidia aims for Level 4 autonomy, with plans for robotaxi deployments by 2027 and self-driving tech in personally owned vehicles by 2028.

Home / Technology / Nvidia's AI Drives Mercedes, Challenges Tesla Autonomy

Nvidia's AI Drives Mercedes, Challenges Tesla Autonomy

6 Jan

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Summary

Nvidia's L2 driver-assist system piloted in San Francisco.
System aims for L4 autonomy, rivals Tesla's Full Self-Driving.
Rollout to automakers planned for early 2026.

Nvidia's AI Drives Mercedes, Challenges Tesla Autonomy

Nvidia is aggressively advancing its automotive business with a new Level 2 driver-assist system, showcased in a Mercedes-Benz CLA navigating complex San Francisco streets. This AI-powered technology, expected to reach automakers in early 2026, represents Nvidia's substantial investment in autonomous driving and aims to compete directly with Tesla's Full Self-Driving.

The system demonstrated advanced capabilities, handling traffic signals, stop signs, and unprotected left turns with confidence, even navigating around obstacles like double-parked cars and pedestrians. Nvidia's approach leverages both its own AI and the vehicle's existing sensors, with a roadmap for Level 4 autonomy trials by 2026 and broader deployments by 2027.

Nvidia plans to release Level 2 highway and urban driving features in the first half of 2026, with urban capabilities expanding later that year. The company is committed to safety and aims to become a leading supplier in the autonomous vehicle market, despite its automotive division's current small share of its overall revenue.