Daimler clarifies: Neither programmers nor automated systems are entitled to weigh the value of human lives

Stuttgart - A statement by Daimler regarding dilemma situations in the context of autonomous driving made at the Paris Motorshow in France has been quoted incorrectly. For Daimler it is clear that neither programmers nor automated systems are entitled to weigh the value of human lives. Our development work focuses on completely avoiding dilemma situations by, for example, implementing a risk-avoidance operating strategy in our vehicles.

There is no instance in which we have made a decision in favor of vehicle occupants. We continue to adhere to the principle of providing the highest possible level of safety for all road users. To make a decision in favor of one person and thus against another is not legally permissible in Germany. There are similar views in other countries as well.

To clarify these issues of law and ethics in the long term will require broad international discourse. This is the only way to build a comprehensive consensus and promote acceptance for the results. As manufacturers we will implement both the respective legal framework and what is deemed to be socially acceptable.