- Audi is finally launching a hands-free Level 2 driving system.
- It debuts on the Q9 and operates at speeds up to 85 mph.
- System launches in US, Canada, and Germany but will expand.
Audi was an early autonomous driving pioneer as they introduced a Level 3 system in 2017. Known as AI Traffic Jam Pilot, it debuted on the then new A8. However, the company abandoned the system a few years later and they haven’t really talked about hands-free driving since then.
That’s finally starting to change as the 2027 Q9 offers adaptive driving assistant plus with hands-free driving. It comes standard on the $93,300 Q9 Premium Plus and should make long trips far more relaxing.
More: Audi’s Biggest SUV Ever Tops Out At $120,000 For The SQ9, And Yes, It Has a V8
The system works on “approved” highway and Autobahn segments in Canada, Germany, and the United States. The Level 2 system operates at speeds up to 85 mph (137 km/h) or 130 km/h (81 mph) – depending on location.
As usual, adaptive driving assist plus with hands-free driving handles acceleration, braking, and steering. There’s also an automated lane change function, which can be activated by tapping the turn signal. If it’s safe to proceed, the vehicle will move into the desired lane.
While the system allows for hands-free operation, Audi noted the driver “remains responsible and must stay alert at all times.” To help ensure this happens, the Q9 is equipped with a camera that is mounted on the steering column. It tracks eye position and head movements of the driver to ensure they’re paying attention.
If they’re not, a series of progressively annoying alerts will attempt to get them to focus on the task at hand. Should they fail to respond, the vehicle will eventually bring itself to a “controlled stop.”
Adaptive driving assist plus with hands-free driving uses a long-range front radar as well as side radar sensors and a camera mounted on the windshield. On top of that, GPS data helps to identify approved road segments. When traveling into a compatible area, a notification will appear on the digital instrument cluster and offer to activate the system.
While the system debuts on the Q9 and will be offered in three countries, Audi confirmed adaptive driving assistant plus with hands-free driving will gradually spread to other markets and models. Given the similarities between the Q7 and Q9, it’s natural to assume the smaller three-row crossover will offer the system in the near future.
