Tesla’s Level 2 and Mercedes’ Level 3 systems differ in responsibility as well as capability

Tesla’s system was characterized as technically Level 2 because the driver must keep their eyes on the road. A Mercedes Level 3 system can reportedly allow video viewing on the vehicle display under specified conditions, such as certain freeway situations, although the exact speed and roadway requirements were uncertain.

The comparison framed the distinction as partly an insurance and responsibility issue: under those conditions, Mercedes takes responsibility. It also suggested—without certainty—that the Mercedes system may have more disengagements than Tesla’s latest Level 2 FSD iteration. Fully or highly automated driving could create a use case for a foldable phone, subject to applicable rules and autonomy limits.