I'm surprised the article didn't mention Mercedes' history with drive assist systems especially. This is very old tech for them. For instance, I recall seeing a Mercedes S class with dynamic cruise control in 2002.
Because Mercedes isn't making absurd claims about autopilot systems and because "everyone knows" that innovation only comes from Silicon Valley. OK, that was a bit snarky but assistive driving systems, however useful and safety-enhancing, don't get people all wide-eyed and excited the way promises of autonomy in "just five years" does.