When automakers launch a new or significantly revised model, it's not uncommon for them to have an executive visit the plant and drive the first vehicle off the assembly line.
Mercedes is no exception but this time they decide to mix things up by sending Markus Schäfer who is a member of the Divisional Board that specializes in production and supply chain management.
In the clip, you can see Schäfer visit the Sindelfingen factory and step into the passenger seat of a facelifted S 560 4MATIC. A series of cameras and sensors then work together to help the car drive off itself off the assembly line. The demonstration doesn't stop there as the car drove itself approximately 1.5 km (0.9 miles) to the loading area within the plant.
The technology is definitely slick but Mercedes notes it's more than just a cheap party trick. As the company explained, the Sindelfingen plant is exploring the use of system to increase automation and efficiency.
According to Schäfer, “The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class sets worldwide standards for safety, comfort, connectivity, and is on the road to automated driving. The S-Class's independent journey from the production line to the plant's loading area shows the future of how we will be able to use driver assistance systems in production.” He went on to suggest, that in the future, models could be able to drive themselves off the assembly line and then travel directly to the owner's home.
The facelifted Mercedes S-Class will be launched in Europe later this month and it features an assortment of updates. Notable changes include revised styling, upgraded technology, and several new engines.
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