As automakers race to implement more advanced driver assistance systems, one province in Canada is putting the brakes on the technology. British Columbia recently updated its Motor Vehicle Act, banning the use of vehicles equipped with Level 3 systems. This is not just a crackdown on the use of such systems. The law prohibits simply driving a Level 3 equipped car, whether you use it or not.
The updated rules were signed on March 18 and took effect on April 5. Technically speaking, they prohibit the driving of vehicles equipped with level 3, 4 or 5 automated systems. But at this stage, nothing is available for public use beyond level 3. Even then, there is no There are only two vehicles with Tier 3 abilities that you can purchase. The 2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and EQS offer the system, and it is currently only approved for limited use in California and Nevada. At speeds below 40 mph on some limited-access highways, it allows drivers to not intervene, although they must be prepared to take control.
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So basically, if you own a 2024 S-Class or EQS with the optional Drive Pilot system, you might want to think twice before taking a drive to Vancouver. If you are caught, fines range from $368 to $2,000 in Canadian currency, or up to six months in prison. Yeah.
We’ve reached out to British Columbia officials for clarification on whether this law applies only to residents of the province or all motorists, and how exactly it will be enforced. We will provide an update if we receive a response.
Future use of Level 3 technology in British Columbia is not ruled out. In a statement regarding the rule changes, officials call it a “new and emerging transportation technology” that requires additional testing and policy adjustments before widespread use.
“These new regulations will keep people safe on our roads and further encourage the use of active transportation,” said Rob Fleming, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “This is another step in modernizing our rules to keep up with new technologies that are changing the way people move.”
