Mercedes-Benz is testing Level 4 autonomous taxis in Abu Dhabi.
In addition to the roof-mounted LIDAR sensors and next-generation autonomous driving technologies, the test vehicle is a new facelifted Mercedes S-Class, expected to debut in early 2026.
Báo Khoa học và Đời sống•13/12/2025
Mercedes-Benz and Momenta have partnered with technology company K2 and its Abu Dhabi-based subsidiary Lumo to operate a fleet of S-Class robotaxi test vehicles. What Mercedes hasn't publicly announced is that these robotaxies are actually a mid-cycle upgrade of its cleverly concealed flagship limousine. If leaks are accurate, Mercedes-Benz's self-driving taxi is expected to launch in January 2026. The company has cleverly revealed an upgraded S-Class version through a series of S-Class test vehicles featuring a "new era of autonomous driving": a Level 4 robotaxi experience according to SAE standards.
The luxury car manufacturer and Momenta, its ADAS partner in China, recently revealed plans to launch a self-driving shuttle service using the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Testing is currently underway with local partner Lumo on routes in Abu Dhabi. The prototype vehicle is being tested before "wider deployment in other locations in other markets". Lumo, a subsidiary of the K2 technology group, has received government approval to operate self-driving vehicles in the UAE, including Abu Dhabi.
Compared to the upcoming S-Class facelift, these robotaxis feature LiDAR sensors mounted on the roof along with side cameras positioned on the front wheel arches. As seen in the test vehicles, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class will have redesigned headlights with two LED stars in each cluster. The car's new taillights also incorporate a more prominent three-pointed LED star, as do the new front bumper and grille. The grille appears to be inspired by the new Mercedes-Benz GLC EQ, extending down to the front bumper similar to that on the Mercedes-Benz Vision Iconic concept car. Details about the powertrain have yet to be revealed, but the S-Class is expected to retain the same engine options under the hood. Inside, Mercedes will be fitting the Hyperscreen dashboard setup with three large, interconnected screens into the S-Class, starting with the electric EQS.
“With the S-Class self-driving taxi, we are raising the bar for autonomous mobility – always combining safety and comfort to set new standards for the industry and intelligent transportation worldwide . All our activities in this area underscore Mercedes-Benz’s pioneering role in autonomous driving,” said Joerg Burzer, Member of the Board of Directors of Mercedes-Benz AG. Video : Mercedes-Benz tests Level 4 autonomous taxi in Abu Dhabi.
Báo Khoa học và Đời sống•13/12/2025
Comment (0)