SAE J3106™ Level 0

SAE Level 0 - No Driving Automation

Level 0 represents no driving automation, with the human driver performing all aspects of the dynamic driving task. This includes tasks like:

• Steering
• Braking
• Accelerating
• Monitoring the driving environment

At this level, systems may provide warnings and momentary assistance, but no sustained vehicle control happens without direct input from the human driver.

Examples of Level 0 Systems

• Traditional cruise control (maintains set speed until driver applies brakes)
• Tire pressure monitoring
• Forward collision warning
• Lane departure warning
• Rearview camera/sensors for parking aid only

While these features can help the driver, they do not actually perform any part of the driving task on a sustained basis. The driver retains full responsibility for safe vehicle operation at all times.

Human Driver Roles and Responsibilities

At Level 0, the human driver is fully responsible for:

• Steering
• Braking
• Accelerating
• Monitoring the driving environment
• Responding to objects and events
• Obeying traffic laws
• Safe maneuvering of the vehicle

There is no driving mode where the driver can disengage from the driving task. The driver must be in full control of the vehicle at all times.Level 0 represents the conventional method of driving dating back to the invention of the automobile. As automation advances, vehicles will progress through higher levels allowing the driving systems to take over more of the dynamic driving task.