If the Audi A8 is driving in convoy traffic at a maximum speed of 60 km/h, the AI traffic jam pilot takes over the driving task on freeways and multi-lane highways with structural separation from the oncoming lane. The system manages starting, accelerating, steering and braking in its lane. It also masters challenging situations such as vehicles approaching close to it. It receives the control signals that the system needs for highly automated driving from the central driver assistance control unit and from a redundant data fusion in the radar control unit.

Once the driver has activated the traffic jam pilot with the AI button on the center console, they can take their foot off the accelerator pedal and their hands off the steering wheel permanently. Unlike with Level 2, the driver no longer has to constantly monitor the car and can devote himself to an activity supported by the on-board infotainment system, depending on the applicable national regulations. The Audi virtual cockpit now graphically displays the movement and surroundings of the new A8.

During highly automated driving, a camera checks whether the driver is ready to take over the wheel again if necessary. For example, it analyzes the position and movement of the head as well as the blinking of the eyes and generates anonymized data from this. If, for example, the driver's eyes are closed for a longer period of time, the system prompts them to resume the driving task. A takeover request is made in three phases - from visual and acoustic warnings to emergency braking. If the speed rises above 60 km/h or the convoy breaks up, the traffic jam pilot also informs the driver that they must resume the driving task themselves. If the driver ignores this message and the subsequent warnings, the A8 brakes continuously until it comes to a standstill in its lane.