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by AlotOfReading 1031 days ago
Level 5 is essentially defined as L4 with an "unlimited" ODD, not a meaningful level on its own. Waymo and Cruise are L4 systems, but you could build an L4 system where people were able to drive if you wished.
1 comments

I get that it's defined that way, but it's not, practically speaking, the same. The article is about a driver having L3/L4 tech. Waymo/Cruise are not allowing that. So you truly can relax/nap/do work email... because what else would you do?
Yes, and the article quotes people that are really only talking about L3, even though they use the word "L4".

One of the defining features of L4 as everyone else uses that term is that you are not required to take over, even in emergencies. L4 capabilities don't prevent you from voluntarily taking over, it's simply not required that you be able to in order to operate the ODD. Both Cruise and Waymo operate test fleets with drivers who can take over, incidentally.