Stellantis Unveils STLA AutoDrive: Hands-Free, AI-Powered Driving

Stellantis has officially launched STLA AutoDrive, its first fully in-house-developed autonomous driving system, marking a major milestone in the company’s technological roadmap. The system introduces Hands-Free and Eyes-Off (SAE Level 3) capabilities, allowing drivers to temporarily disengage from control while the vehicle navigates stop-and-go traffic at speeds up to 60 km/h (37 mph).

This cutting-edge driver assistance technology is set to be integrated across multiple Stellantis brands, providing a smoother, safer, and more intelligent driving experience. With the potential to expand to higher speeds and off-road capabilities in the future, STLA AutoDrive is built for evolution.

STLA AutoDrive: Smarter, Safer, and Designed for Real-World Use – 

Unlike traditional adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist systems, STLA AutoDrive actively assumes control of steering, acceleration, and braking without requiring driver input in Level 3 mode. This enables motorists to focus on other activities, such as checking emails, reading, or simply relaxing, while the system efficiently manages low-speed traffic conditions.

“Helping drivers make the best use of their time is a priority,” said Ned Curic, Stellantis Chief Engineering and Technology Officer. “STLA AutoDrive is designed to handle routine driving tasks, reducing stress and making time behind the wheel more enjoyable.”

This breakthrough is made possible through a network of advanced sensors, cameras, radar, and AI-driven processing that constantly monitors surroundings in real-time, ensuring safe and precise vehicle control. Even in challenging weather conditions, nighttime driving, or road spray scenarios, the system maintains reliability, thanks to an automated sensor-cleaning feature.

Level 3 Autonomy: How It Works – 

When STLA AutoDrive detects suitable traffic conditions, the vehicle notifies the driver that hands-free, eyes-off mode is available. With the press of a button, the system takes full control, enabling seamless and natural acceleration, braking, and steering.

Key Features of STLA AutoDrive Level 3:

• Fully autonomous control at speeds up to 60 km/h (37 mph)
• Smooth, human-like driving responses
• Works in low-visibility conditions (night, rain, or road spray)
• Built-in safety redundancies ensure immediate driver handover if needed

To prevent misuse, STLA AutoDrive requires the driver to remain in their seat with a fastened seatbelt, ready to take over if the system encounters an unexpected scenario or reaches a speed limit beyond its operational range.

Level 2 & 2+: Advanced Assistance for Higher Speeds – 

While Level 3 is limited to lower-speed environments, STLA AutoDrive also includes Level 2 (hands-on) and Level 2+ (hands-off, eyes-on) capabilities for higher-speed driving. These functions offer:

• Adaptive Cruise Control – Maintains speed while adjusting to traffic flow
• Lane Centering – Keeps the vehicle precisely within its lane
• Predictive Traffic Response – Adjusts for merging traffic and sudden slowdowns

Designed for the Future: Higher Speeds & Off-Road Capabilities – 

STLA AutoDrive is built on a scalable, upgradable software platform with future advancements in mind. Stellantis engineers are actively developing enhancements, including:

• Expansion to speeds up to 95 km/h (59 mph) – Enabling hands-free highway driving
• Off-road automation for select models – Enhancing driver assistance in rugged terrain
• Continuous software improvements – Over-the-air (OTA) updates will optimize performance

“We engineered STLA AutoDrive to be a long-term solution that adapts with market needs and evolving regulations,” said Curic. “This system is designed for continuous enhancements, ensuring Stellantis vehicles stay at the forefront of automated driving.”

Seamless Integration Across Stellantis Brands – 

STLA AutoDrive is platform-agnostic, meaning it can be deployed across multiple Stellantis models—from compact city cars to premium SUVs and electric vehicles (EVs). The system will be fine-tuned for different global markets, ensuring compliance with local regulations and driving conditions.