Autonomous driving plans of Stellantis scaled back, as the company suspends Level 3 self-driving vehicle deployment

In a significant development, automotive giant Stellantis has announced the indefinite postponement of its AutoDrive Level 3 self-driving program. The decision comes as a response to high costs, technological challenges, and organizational hurdles, as confirmed by a spokesperson for the company to Reuters.

Stellantis had initially aimed to launch AutoDrive with Level 3 capability in 2024, as part of its broader strategy to catch up to industry leaders like Tesla and Chinese EV makers. The program was one of three core technology platforms within Stellantis' "STLA ABC" strategy, which also includes the SmartCockpit infotainment system and STLA Brain electrical architecture.

The automaker had acquired tech startup aiMotive in 2022 to further develop the next generation of its applied driver assistance system as part of the AutoDrive program. However, the launch of AutoDrive was pushed back to 2025 and eventually indefinitely postponed.

The pause in AutoDrive has been partly attributed to the smartphone-like approach of frequent over-the-air updates pioneered by Tesla and Chinese EV makers, which has hampered Stellantis' software push. The high costs associated with the development and deployment of the technology have also been a significant factor.

In addition, Stellantis is relying on suppliers for advanced driver-assistance technology, which may have contributed to the delays and challenges faced by the AutoDrive program. The limited market demand for Level 3 technology, as demonstrated by the unveiling of the technology in February 2025 but lack of immediate release, further complicates the situation.

Mercedes-Benz is currently the first automaker with a legally approved Level 3 system, adding pressure on Stellantis to deliver a competitive product. The company's newly appointed CEO Antonio Filosa is expected to unveil an updated strategy in early 2026, which may provide insights into the future of Stellantis' self-driving ambitions.

Despite the setbacks, Stellantis has emphasised its commitment to innovation and the development of advanced driver-assistance systems. The technology unveiled in February 2025 is ready to be deployed, and the company remains optimistic about its future in the self-driving market.

In the meantime, Stellantis continues to focus on delivering quality vehicles to its customers, leveraging its existing technology such as the SmartCockpit infotainment system and STLA Brain electrical architecture to enhance the driving experience. The company's decision to pause AutoDrive is part of a broader cost-cutting effort amid falling sales, reflecting the ongoing challenges faced by legacy automakers in the rapidly evolving automotive industry.

Autonomous driving plans of Stellantis scaled back, as the company suspends Level 3 self-driving vehicle deployment