Stellantis has made the decision to halt its AutoDrive Level 3 self-driving program, opting instead to rely on suppliers for advanced driver-assistance technology in an effort to reduce costs amidst declining sales, according to a report by Reuters.
Initially, Stellantis had planned to launch its AutoDrive system with Level 3 capability in 2024 in collaboration with BMW, but the debut was postponed to 2025. In February, the automaker had announced that the system was “ready for deployment,” but it never materialized.
A spokesperson for Stellantis stated that the technology for Level 3 was unveiled in February 2025, but due to limited market demand, it has not been launched. Level 3 technology allows drivers to take their hands off the wheel and eyes off the road under certain conditions, enabling them to engage in other activities such as reading, watching movies, or checking emails. Mercedes-Benz currently boasts the first legally approved Level 3 system.
However, sources have indicated that the program has effectively been put on hold and may not be launched at all. This decision reflects the challenges faced by traditional automakers in catching up to Tesla and Chinese EV manufacturers, who have pioneered the approach of frequent over-the-air updates akin to a smartphone. Stellantis has encountered obstacles in its software development efforts, including high costs, technological obstacles, and organizational challenges.
Stuart Taylor, chief product officer at consultancy Envorso, noted that developing everything in-house is becoming increasingly unfeasible for automakers due to the high investment and risks involved.
Stellantis has stated that the work already completed on AutoDrive will inform future versions of the technology. The company is now turning to aiMotive, a tech startup it acquired in 2022, to develop the next generation of its advanced driver-assistance system. AutoDrive was originally positioned as one of the core technology platforms within Stellantis’ “STLA ABC” strategy, alongside its SmartCockpit infotainment system and STLA Brain electrical architecture.
Antonio Filosa, the newly appointed CEO of Stellantis, is expected to unveil an updated strategy in early 2026 as the company navigates through declining sales and a stock price that has dropped by more than 40% over the past year. The world of technology is constantly evolving, with new innovations and advancements being made every day. One of the most exciting developments in recent years is the rise of artificial intelligence (AI).
AI is the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. It allows machines to learn from experience, adapt to new inputs, and perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech recognition, decision-making, and language translation.
One of the most significant impacts of AI is its ability to streamline and automate processes in various industries. For example, in healthcare, AI is being used to analyze medical images and diagnose diseases with a high degree of accuracy. This not only saves time for healthcare professionals but also improves patient outcomes by providing faster and more accurate diagnoses.
In the financial sector, AI is being used to detect fraudulent activities and predict market trends. This enables financial institutions to better protect their clients’ assets and make more informed investment decisions.
AI is also revolutionizing the way we interact with technology. Virtual assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant use AI to understand and respond to human commands, making everyday tasks like setting reminders, sending messages, and playing music easier and more convenient.
However, with the rise of AI comes concerns about privacy and security. As AI systems become more advanced and sophisticated, there is the potential for them to be used for malicious purposes, such as surveillance or data mining. It is essential for companies and policymakers to establish clear guidelines and regulations to ensure that AI is used ethically and responsibly.
Despite these challenges, the future of AI looks promising. As technology continues to advance, AI will play an increasingly important role in our daily lives, from improving healthcare outcomes to enhancing customer service experiences. It is crucial for us to embrace this technology and harness its potential for the greater good.