Advertisement

Leading carmaker reveals hands-free driving mode to let drivers do emails or other tasks

Maker of Jeep, Fiat, Dodge, Peugeot and other marques builds autonomous driving technology to let drivers watch movies, email, take a break

Reading Time:1 minute
Why you can trust SCMP
Carmaker Stellantis, whose marques include Jeep, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Dodge and Maserati, has unveiled STLA AutoDrive 1.0, the company’s first in-house-developed automated driving system. Activated by a dashboard button, it is intended for short-term use. Photo: Stellantis

Major carmaker the Stellantis Group has revealed that it is developing its first in-house automated driving technology – STLA AutoDrive.

Advertisement

The system will allow a vehicle to be driven autonomously at speeds of up to 60 km/h (37 mph) in urban areas and 95 km/h on motorways.

STLA AutoDrive enables the driver to temporarily take their hands off the steering wheel, allowing them to watch a movie, catch up on emails or look out of the window.

The driver will be able to activate the system via a physical button, then the vehicle will maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front, adjust its speed, and manage its steering and braking based on traffic flow.

Ned Curic, Stellantis chief engineering and technology, said: “Helping drivers make the best use of their time is priority. By handling routine driving tasks, STLA AutoDrive will enhance the driving experience, making time behind the wheel more efficient and enjoyable.”

Advertisement
loading
Advertisement