Feb. 23 (GeokHub) - Global automakers are accelerating development of a controversial next-generation driving technology that would allow motorists to briefly take their eyes off the road — unless prompted by the vehicle to retake control.
The technology, known in industry terms as Level 3 autonomous driving, represents a midpoint between traditional driver-assistance features and fully self-driving systems. Unlike today’s common Level 2 systems, Level 3 allows drivers to disengage from constant monitoring under certain highway conditions.
Companies including Ford Motor, General Motors, and Honda Motor have announced plans to introduce eyes-off systems in coming years. Ford has signaled that affordable electric models could feature the technology starting in 2028.
For automakers, the move offers a potential path to recoup billions invested in autonomous research. By enabling drivers to multitask — whether answering emails or handling other digital tasks — carmakers hope to position autonomy as a premium convenience feature.
A Costly and Divisive Step
Yet the industry remains divided over whether Level 3 is worth pursuing.
Consultants estimate that developing a highway-capable Level 3 system can cost up to $1.5 billion — roughly double the expense of advanced Level 2 systems. Some manufacturers are reconsidering their strategies after encountering high development costs, limited consumer demand, and complex regulatory requirements.
Mercedes-Benz, currently the only brand offering Level 3 technology in the United States, recently paused expansion of its program after speed limits, geographic restrictions, and operating conditions dampened consumer interest. The company has indicated it will revisit a more advanced version in the coming years.
Similarly, Stellantis has scaled back its Level 3 development efforts amid financial and technological concerns.
Even Tesla — whose Full Self-Driving software remains classified as Level 2 and requires driver attention — has not introduced an eyes-off personal vehicle system. Instead, Tesla is prioritizing fully autonomous robotaxi deployment, placing it in direct competition with Waymo, which is owned by Alphabet.
The Safety and Legal Question
The central challenge of Level 3 systems lies in the transition of control. Vehicles must reliably detect when human intervention is necessary, alert the driver in time, and maintain safe operation until control is resumed.
Legal experts warn that this handoff raises complex liability questions. If a crash occurs during eyes-off operation, determining whether the driver or the manufacturer bears responsibility remains legally unclear in many jurisdictions.
Analysts note that moving from Level 2 to Level 3 significantly increases the likelihood that manufacturers could face liability in the event of system failure. Without regulatory clarity, some industry observers believe widespread adoption may stall.
While Western automakers debate the business case, Chinese manufacturers are advancing rapidly. Government regulators in China recently approved a vehicle with Level 3 capability, and brands such as BYD and Leapmotor are embedding increasingly advanced driver-assistance systems into standard vehicle pricing.
This could trigger competitive pricing pressures globally if consumers begin expecting similar features without costly subscription models.
Analysis: A Strategic Crossroads
Level 3 autonomy sits at a strategic crossroads for the automotive industry. It promises convenience and potential revenue streams, yet carries high development costs, uncertain demand, and unresolved legal exposure.
Some experts argue that pursuing more limited but fully autonomous Level 4 systems in defined conditions may prove more practical than refining the delicate handoff between machine and human.
As the race toward autonomy continues, automakers must decide whether eyes-off driving is a stepping stone — or an expensive detour — on the road to fully driverless vehicles.
