Following are the stages of vehicle automation. Each level includes all the functions of the previous levels. See
self-driving car.
Level 0 - No real automation; however, all cars have built-in safety features such as anti-lock brakes (see
ABS), as well as warnings for open doors and unbuckled seat belts. See
TPM.
Level 1 - In 2021, most new cars have some or all of these driver-assist features:
navigation system,
adaptive cruise control,
collision avoidance system,
lane departure system,
blind spot monitoring and
adaptive headlights.
Level 2 - User-initiated self-driving; however, drivers must have their hands on the wheel, at least periodically. In 2014, Tesla's Autopilot was first to reach this level in a production vehicle. In 2021, several car models are at this stage.
Level 3 - Autonomous driving but driver must be able to take control. In 2021, a few car models are approaching this stage.
Level 4 - Complete autonomous driving when conditions are appropriate.
Level 5 - No steering wheel. Fully automated.