When we looked at the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class last year, one of the highlights was the vehicle's “Intelligent Drive System.” This assisted driving system is designed to avoid or mitigate collisions through a suite of sensors and computer-assisted steering and braking. The company has now released four videos that explain how each feature works.
BAS PLUS
The Brake Assist system BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist uses stereo cameras and long and medium range radar to monitor cross traffic and pedestrians. If the car’s computer detects a risk of collision, it boosts the braking power applied by the driver until it’s sufficient to prevent an accident or reduce the amount of damage.
DISTRONIC PLUS
Active Lane Keeping Assistance
Kicking in a speeds over 60 km/h (37 mph), Active Lane Keeping Assist uses long and short range radar to monitor traffic on all sides of the car. If the car starts to drift out of its lane or the driver tries to change lanes into one that is occupied, the system sounds a warning and makes the steering wheel vibrate. It then applies the brakes on the opposite wheels to steer the vehicle back into its lane. The system can also recognize broken and solid line markings.
PRE-SAFE
The PRE-SAFE Brake is a comprehensive safety system that Mercedes says can detect pedestrians and brake autonomously to avoid collisions completely when traveling at speeds of over 50 km/h (31 mph) or significantly reduce damage when moving at speeds of up to 72 km/h (45 mph). The system also automatically tightens the front seat belts, adjusts the front head restraints and passenger seat, and can even close the windows and sunroof.
Source: Mercedes-Benz USA via Motorward
