Mercedes-Benz has introduced turquoise-colored lights to indicate when its Drive Pilot automated driving function is active in its vehicles. The Drive Pilot system is the first SAE Level 3 driver assistance system to be available to customers, and is currently in use in Europe and in select areas of the US. The turquoise-colored lights will be incorporated into vehicles from model year 2026. Mercedes-Benz has sought permission to use the lights in California and Nevada to establish a standard for automated driving systems, which is currently lacking. The company hopes that this standardization will foster understanding and acceptance of autonomous technology and improve safety for all road users. The color turquoise was chosen because it stands out, is distinct from existing vehicle lighting, and reduces the potential for confusion with emergency lights.
