What is Level 3 autonomous driving?

Level 3 autonomous driving systems allow drivers to take their eyes off the road for limited periods, requiring the car to alert the driver to retake control.

Why are automakers hesitant about Level 3 technology?

Hesitation stems from high development costs, estimated at $1.5 billion, complex liability issues, and uncertainty about consumer demand and the system's safety.

What are other companies doing regarding autonomous driving?

Companies like Tesla are focusing on full autonomy and robotaxi services, with plans for expansion in U.S. cities by the first half of 2026, rather than personal Level 3 offerings.

Home / Technology / Eyes Off? Car Autonomy Faces Hurdles

Eyes Off? Car Autonomy Faces Hurdles

23 Feb

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Summary

Level 3 autonomous driving allows drivers to take eyes off the road.
Development costs for Level 3 systems reach $1.5 billion.
Liability issues and consumer demand create hurdles for Level 3.

Automakers are navigating a complex path toward Level 3 autonomous driving, a system designed to let drivers briefly take their eyes off the road. Ford aims to launch this technology on affordable electric vehicles starting in 2028. This advancement sits between current Level 2 systems, which require constant driver attention, and full Level 5 autonomy.

However, the industry faces significant challenges. The development cost for Level 3 highway systems is estimated at $1.5 billion, leading some companies to reconsider their ambitions. Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis have already scaled back or shelved their Level 3 efforts due to high costs, technical difficulties, and uncertain consumer interest.