New Stellantis STLA AutoDrive Tech Promises ‘Hands Free, Eyes Off’ Driving

Global automaking giant Stellantis is set to bring “hands free, eyes off” driving capabilities to a slew of its brands and products, key amongst which being Peugeot, Jeep, Alfa Romeo, and more. Called STLA AutoDrive, the tech was revealed by the firm just recently.

Essentially, STLA AutoDrive brings Level 3 autonomous driving abilities, hence its eyes- and hands-off promise mentioned. However, though the automaker claims the system is fully developed, it’s electing to hold off on a full market roll-out, and for unusual reasons too.

Stellantis recently revealed its new STLA AutoDrive Level 3 autonomous driving tech. Though claimed to be fully developed, the automaker elected to hold off from a full market roll-out for several key reasons.

“The current market for Level 3 autonomous driving is very limited. Once the market opens up and becomes more receptive, we will move forward with introducing this advanced technology,” reportedly said a company spokesperson.

The claims of a ‘limited’ marketspace by Stellantis does somewhat ring true. For instance, premium brand rivals such as Mercedes-Benz already offers Level 3 capabilities in select models, but it’s availability is limited in terms of both scale and market region.

Back to STLA AutoDrive and, according to Stellantis, the tech was engineered to allow drivers to perform other non-driving-related tasks, like reading a book or watching a movie, so as long they’re ready to take over if the system prompts them to.

Typical of any Level 3 autonomous driving tech systems seen developed by rivals, STLA AutoDrive promises "hands free, eyes off" driving abilities.

“Helping drivers make the best use of their time is a priority. y handling routine driving tasks, STLA AutoDrive will enhance the driving experience, making time behind the wheel more efficient and enjoyable,” explained Ned Curic, Stellantis’ Chief Engineering and Technology Officer.

Moreover, from the video released by Stellantis showcasing the STLA AutoDrive tech, the firm has also promised that the tech could also work for off-roading thanks to future software updates. Clearly, Stellantis has big plans for STLA AutoDrive given this teaser hint.

For the moment, STLA AutoDrive is not yet available, and Stellantis says it will begin rolling out the tech once market demands for Level 3 tech matures.

For the uninitiated, Level 2 semi-autonomous driving, commonly found in most vehicle today, is capable of handling routine driving tasks - lane-centering, adjusting speed, and even allow for brief periods of hands-free driving. Ultimately,  drivers are still required to keep their vision on the road at all times.

Level 3 autonomous driving tech like STLA AutoDrive, on the other hand, promises to enhance the driving experience, making time behind the wheel more efficient and enjoyable.