The competition in autonomous driving technology among automakers is expanding into hands-free driving. Genesis is set to join the market by the end of this year, while German manufacturers are accelerating preparations for next year's introduction. Autonomous driving assistance technologies that reduce the burden on drivers are becoming key factors in the competitiveness of new vehicles.
According to industry sources on October 26, Hyundai Motor Company plans to launch a facelifted version of the Genesis G90 equipped with Level 2+ autonomous driving technology as early as next month. This will be the first time Hyundai applies this hands-free driving feature to its models.
Next year, the technology will also be included in next-generation software-defined vehicles (SDVs). By 2028, Genesis aims to implement Level 2++ autonomous driving technology in its premium large models, enabling navigation assistance in urban areas similar to that on highways.
Hands-free driving allows vehicles to assist with steering and acceleration without the driver needing to hold the steering wheel. Currently, this feature requires the driver to maintain attention on the road, meaning they must be ready to intervene if necessary.
The hands-free competition is expected to intensify in South Korea, starting with the G90 at the end of the year. German automakers are also preparing to respond. Mercedes-Benz Korea aims to introduce its 'MB. Drive Assist Pro' in the domestic market next year. This advanced driver assistance system effectively supports hands-free driving equivalent to Level 2++.
Some models are already equipped with the necessary hardware. The 'All-New Electric GLC,' set to launch next month, is a prime example. Kim Eun-jung, Vice President of Mercedes-Benz Korea, stated, "The GLC is equipped with ten cameras, completing the hardware preparations," adding that the domestic introduction of MB. Drive Assist Pro is contingent on regulatory developments and internal technology validation, with plans for next year.
BMW may also add hands-free functionality to its new 7 Series, which is expected to arrive in South Korea by the end of the year. The new 7 Series, launched globally in July, includes hands-free specifications based on Level 2 technology, allowing for hands-free driving at speeds up to 130 km/h on certain highways in Europe.
Globally, automakers are already outlining plans for fully hands-free driving that does not require driver attention. On October 22, GM announced it would introduce complete hands-free driving on highways starting with the 2028 Cadillac Escalade IQ model. Ultimately, the extent to which driver intervention is reduced will be a critical factor in the competition for autonomous driving technology.
An industry insider noted, "Once we reach Level 3 autonomous driving, the responsibility for accidents shifts to the manufacturer," adding that while the '+' designation is not an official classification, it is commonly used in the industry. For the time being, the focus will be on advancing technology rather than simply increasing levels of autonomy.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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