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Jeep’s Tesla-Beating Driver-Assistance System Has Been Scrapped
No, you can’t watch movies during your morning commute just yet
Earlier this year, Stellantis announced a new Level 3 autonomous driving system called STLA AutoDrive, a hands-free, eyes-off system that can be used at speeds of up to 37 mph. It was an exciting development, given that only one automaker, Mercedes-Benz, has an approved Level 3 system in the United States.
The AutoDrive system would likely have made its way into luxury models under the Stellantis umbrella first, such as the Jeep Wagoneer S, the SUV used to demonstrate the technology. That plan has now been scrapped, at least for now, despite the system being fully developed. Here’s why Stellantis made this decision.
Low Demand And High CostsStellantis
Three people familiar with the matter told Reuters that a combination of limited customer demand, high costs, and technological challenges resulted in AutoDrive being shelved. Stellantis stopped short of saying the AutoDrive program is permanently canceled, though, which conflicts with what the three sources claim.
“What was unveiled in February 2025 was L3 technology for which there is currently limited market demand, so this has not been launched, but the technology is available and ready to be deployed,” claimed a spokesperson from Stellantis. The company representative was unwilling to divulge the amount of time and money that was lost on developing AutoDrive when asked about it.
The AutoDrive system not only allows the driver to take their hands off the wheel under certain conditions, but their eyes, too. Primarily designed for urban environments, it would enable drivers to temporarily partake in other activities like watching videos, checking emails, or using other in-car entertainment functions.
“Helping drivers make the best use of their time is a priority,” said Ned Curic, Stellantis chief engineering and technology officer back in February. “By handling routine driving tasks, STLA AutoDrive will enhance the driving experience, making time behind the wheel more efficient and enjoyable.”
AutoDrive Was Going To Get Even Better Over TimeStellantis
View the 3 images of this gallery on the
original article
When launched, Stellantis made some impressive claims about the AutoDrive system, saying it’s an “evolving system” that will continue improving over time. Its future enhancements were to include hands-off and eyes-free driving at much higher speeds of up to 59 mph. For certain models, presumably compatible Ram or Jeep trucks/SUVs, an automated off-road function was to become available.
AutoDrive would have given Stellantis EVs like the Jeep Wagoneer S a real edge over rivals like Tesla. Despite Tesla’s Full Self-Driving suite being able to operate in a range of conditions, it’s still a Level 2 system that requires the driver to remain attentive at all times. And, while Mercedes has its Level 3 system operational in the USA, it’s only available on the expensive S-Class and EQS, and only in parts of California and Nevada.
For now, Stellantis fans will have to settle for much more basic tech like the Jeep and Ram’s Active Driving Assist system, which still requires complete driver attentiveness.
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No, you can’t watch movies during your morning commute just yet
Earlier this year, Stellantis announced a new Level 3 autonomous driving system called STLA AutoDrive, a hands-free, eyes-off system that can be used at speeds of up to 37 mph. It was an exciting development, given that only one automaker, Mercedes-Benz, has an approved Level 3 system in the United States.
The AutoDrive system would likely have made its way into luxury models under the Stellantis umbrella first, such as the Jeep Wagoneer S, the SUV used to demonstrate the technology. That plan has now been scrapped, at least for now, despite the system being fully developed. Here’s why Stellantis made this decision.
Low Demand And High CostsStellantis
Three people familiar with the matter told Reuters that a combination of limited customer demand, high costs, and technological challenges resulted in AutoDrive being shelved. Stellantis stopped short of saying the AutoDrive program is permanently canceled, though, which conflicts with what the three sources claim.
“What was unveiled in February 2025 was L3 technology for which there is currently limited market demand, so this has not been launched, but the technology is available and ready to be deployed,” claimed a spokesperson from Stellantis. The company representative was unwilling to divulge the amount of time and money that was lost on developing AutoDrive when asked about it.
The AutoDrive system not only allows the driver to take their hands off the wheel under certain conditions, but their eyes, too. Primarily designed for urban environments, it would enable drivers to temporarily partake in other activities like watching videos, checking emails, or using other in-car entertainment functions.
“Helping drivers make the best use of their time is a priority,” said Ned Curic, Stellantis chief engineering and technology officer back in February. “By handling routine driving tasks, STLA AutoDrive will enhance the driving experience, making time behind the wheel more efficient and enjoyable.”
AutoDrive Was Going To Get Even Better Over TimeStellantis
View the 3 images of this gallery on the
original article
When launched, Stellantis made some impressive claims about the AutoDrive system, saying it’s an “evolving system” that will continue improving over time. Its future enhancements were to include hands-off and eyes-free driving at much higher speeds of up to 59 mph. For certain models, presumably compatible Ram or Jeep trucks/SUVs, an automated off-road function was to become available.
AutoDrive would have given Stellantis EVs like the Jeep Wagoneer S a real edge over rivals like Tesla. Despite Tesla’s Full Self-Driving suite being able to operate in a range of conditions, it’s still a Level 2 system that requires the driver to remain attentive at all times. And, while Mercedes has its Level 3 system operational in the USA, it’s only available on the expensive S-Class and EQS, and only in parts of California and Nevada.
For now, Stellantis fans will have to settle for much more basic tech like the Jeep and Ram’s Active Driving Assist system, which still requires complete driver attentiveness.