Autonomous Driving Plans Contracted by Stellantis, Suspends Implementation of Level 3 Self-Governing Technologies
Stellantis, the automotive giant, has announced the temporary halt of its AutoDrive Level 3 self-driving program. The decision comes as the company navigates declining sales and a stock price that has fallen more than 40% over the past year.
Initially, Stellantis aimed to launch AutoDrive with Level 3 capability in 2024. However, the company's software push for self-driving technology has been hampered by high costs, technological challenges, and organizational hurdles.
In February 2022, Stellantis announced that AutoDrive was "ready for deployment," but the debut was pushed back to 2025. Yet, it seems that the program is not expected to launch at all, according to three sources.
The continuation of Stellantis' AutoDrive Level 3 self-driving system development is likely not being pursued further by Stellantis itself. Instead, the company is shifting towards cooperation with external partners like aiMotive, a tech startup it acquired in 2022.
AutoDrive was originally one of three core technology platforms within Stellantis' "STLA ABC" strategy. The halt in development marks a significant change in the company's approach to self-driving technology.
Level 3 technology, which enables drivers to take their hands off the wheel and eyes off the road under certain conditions, has limited market demand. Mercedes-Benz is the first automaker with a legally approved Level 3 system.
Stellantis' newly appointed CEO, Antonio Filosa, is expected to unveil an updated strategy in early 2026. The company's decision to halt the AutoDrive program could indicate a shift towards more cost-effective and feasible self-driving solutions in the future.
Despite the setback, the work already completed on AutoDrive will help inform future versions of the technology. The technology unveiled in February 2025 by Stellantis is ready to be deployed, and the company's partnerships and acquisitions suggest a continued commitment to self-driving technology.
At this time, no specific details have been provided about the partnership with BMW in the context of this decision. It remains to be seen how Stellantis' strategy will evolve in the coming years.
