Mercedes-Benz is pioneering the use of turquoise lighting to indicate automated driving, receiving approval in Germany for testing this technology until July 2028.
This makes Germany the first European country to allow such testing, following similar exemptions granted in Nevada and California in late 2023.
These special marker lights, integrated into the front and rear lights as well as side mirrors, illuminate in turquoise when DRIVE PILOT—Mercedes-Benz’s Level 3 automated driving system—is active.
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The goal is to enhance clarity for other road users, traffic authorities, and police, signaling when a driver is legally allowed to engage in non-driving activities.
Turquoise was chosen for its clear distinction from existing vehicle and traffic lighting, with studies confirming its effectiveness in visibility and recognition.
“We take a holistic approach to automated driving, and marker lights are the next step in building trust in this technology,” said Markus Schäfer, Chief Technology Officer at Mercedes-Benz.
Currently the fastest Level 3 system in a production vehicle, DRIVE PILOT allows hands-free driving at speeds of up to 95 km/h on the right lane of German highways. The insights gained from this testing phase will help shape future regulations, paving the way for widespread adoption of turquoise lighting in automated driving worldwide.
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