FocalPoint, a provider of high-performance positioning technologies, has released a new free white paper, Navigating from Level 2 to Level 3 autonomy: Reliable GNSS as a key enabler of driving automation.
The free resource, which is available to download here, includes guidance on how automotive OEMs can successfully navigate the transition from Level 2 partial automation to Level 3 conditional automation (in which drivers can take their eyes off the road and hands off the wheel in specified conditions). It highlights how reliable GNSS technology can be pivotal in achieving the positioning accuracy required for this next step in vehicle automation.
Highly automated vehicles are beginning to arrive on the roads. As of March 2025, Mercedes has deployed its Level 3 Drive Pilot in its S-Class and EQS vehicles, and BMW offers Personal Pilot in the 7 Series. Several OEMs offer Level 2 automation, but the shift to Level 3 requires enhanced reliability.
Manuel del Castillo, VP of business development at FocalPoint, explained, “GNSS plays a key role in automated driving-assist systems (ADAS) because it is the only source of absolute location. However, it suffers degradation in urban areas and under foliage, due to signal interference from buildings, trees and other obstacles, limiting its potential as an ADAS component.
“At FocalPoint, we have solved this challenge with our groundbreaking software, S-GNSS Auto, which enables a new class of performance and trust in satellite positioning. Our technology measures the direction of incoming signals, allowing the receiver to focus on line-of-sight signals while ignoring all others. This approach mitigates multipath interference and blocks spoofing attempts. By improving sensitivity of the receiver, S-GNSS Auto optimizes GNSS performance under tree cover or when using hidden antennas. The result is enhanced reliability in scenarios where conventional GNSS struggles the most.”
The white paper also explores broader challenges OEMs face on the road to Level 3 autonomy, such as liability and regulatory considerations.
FocalPoint will be exhibiting on Booth 9350 at ADAS & Autonomous Vehicle Technology Expo 2025 in Stuttgart, Germany, on May 20, 21 & 22, 2025! Click here to register for your FREE expo pass.