MERCEDES-BENZ is taking another step towards automated driving with the planned introduction of a lane change function on the new E-Class saloon and estate cars.

The Automatic Lane Change system is supported on motorway-like roads with lane markings and structurally separated directional lanes.

It is already available on several Mercedes models sold in the US and Canada and now Mercedes says it intends to launch the system in Europe to coincide with delivery of the first units of the new E-Class.

The ALC function is an integral part of Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC fitted with the Mercedes Active Steering Assist.

If a slower vehicle is driving ahead, the vehicle can initiate a lane change itself in the speed range of 50 to almost 90mph and overtake completely automatically if lane markings are detected and sufficient clearance is available.

The prerequisite is a road with a speed limit and the vehicle being equipped with MBUX Navigation.

For safety reasons, the system needs to sense that the driver's hands remain on the steering wheel.

Markus Schafer, chief technology officer at Mercedes, said: "We are offering a more comfortable driving experience with the Automatic Lane Change driver-assist system. It is already available for order in the US and I am happy to announce that we are now able to offer Automatic Lane Change in Europe, too."