Stellantis, the automaker behind brands like Jeep and Chrysler, has finally launched its advanced assisted driving features in the market. The new Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L models offer Hands-free Active Driving Assist, which allows for hands-off driving, lane centering, and predictive slowing for corners. This is a significant step up from the previous Active Driving Assist, which only offered hands-on adaptive cruise control and lane centering up to 90 miles per hour.
During Stellantis’ Investor Day, the company gave analysts a preview of the evolution of its Smart Cockpit and AutoDrive systems. At the heart of this evolution is the STLA Brain, a powerful computing center that can process large amounts of vehicle and sensor data. This allows for a safer and more comfortable riding experience, especially as occupants become more engrossed in their screens. Stellantis is unique in choosing to use Qualcomm chips instead of Nvidia silicon for this computing system, reducing the number of ECUs (Electronic Control Units) throughout the car and improving response times.
The STLA Brain is also responsible for Stellantis’ next-generation driver assistance system called AutoDrive. Designed to rival Ford’s BlueCruise and GM’s Super Cruise, AutoDrive aims to eventually offer a full Level 3 autonomous driving experience on approved roads. Currently, Stellantis engineers and programmers are working on extending the duration between driver involvement requests from ten minutes to 40 minutes. This means that drivers can rely on the system for longer periods of time without needing to take control. While Mercedes-Benz and BMW have received limited approvals for Level 3 autonomous driving systems, Stellantis aims to introduce AutoDrive in its vehicles by the 2025 model year in the United States.
In addition to AutoDrive, Stellantis is also introducing SmartCockpit, which was first showcased in the 2022 Chrysler Airflow concept. This new system promises a comprehensive overhaul of the user experience and user interface. Ned Curis, the chief engineering and technology officer at Stellantis, stated that the company’s three software platforms—Brain, Cockpit, and STLA AutoDrive—will be technologically ready for integration by the end of the year. The first vehicles equipped with this technology are expected to hit the market next year.
Overall, Stellantis is making significant strides in advanced driver assistance systems with its Hands-free Active Driving Assist and upcoming AutoDrive. By incorporating Qualcomm chips and reducing the number of ECUs, Stellantis aims to improve response times and offer a safer driving experience. With future developments like SmartCockpit, Stellantis is committed to enhancing the user experience and interface in its vehicles. Exciting advancements are on the horizon as Stellantis looks to transform the way we drive.