Americans don’t want self-driving cars, so Stellantis won’t be making them

A recent AAA poll shows that just 13% of Americans trust self-driving cars, leaving 87% either unsure about, or “too afraid” to give up the controls. At the same time, it seems like Stellantis is giving up on its highly-publicized AutoDrive Level 3 ADAS.

Is this the beginning of the end of self-driving hype?

Reuters is reporting that several inside sources have Stellantis shelving its STLA AutoDrive Level 3 ADAS program over of high costs, technological challenges, and – crucially – ongoing concerns about consumer trust in self-driving technology.

A 2025 survey from AAA indicates that more than 60% of American drivers are “afraid” to ride in a self-driving car, while only 13% think the development of self-driving technology should be a priority – but what might be more disturbing for companies that are deeply invested in autonomy is that the public’s attitudes don’t seem to be improving.

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In fact, the percentage of people afraid of self-driving has actually grown from 2021 to ’25, rising from 54% to 61% over the last few years.

“Most drivers want automakers to focus on advanced safety technology,” explains AAA automotive engineering director Greg Brannon. “Though opinions on fully self-driving cars vary widely, it’s evident that today’s drivers value features that enhance their safety.”

Given that, it’s no wonder Stellantis is backing off – but not giving up. “(STLA AutoDrive) was unveiled in February 2025 was L3 technology for which there is currently limited market demand,” a Stellantis spokesperson told Reuters. “So this has not been launched, but the technology is available and ready to be deployed.”

When asked how much time and money was spent on AutoDrive, Stellantis declined to say.

Electrek’s Take

When you’re busy doubling down on self-driving technology while lying about the tech’s capabilities and fending off ten-figure lawsuits – well, let’s just say that the optics are not good. Here’s hoping Elon doesn’t spend all that bonus he got (he might need it).

SOURCES: AAA, via Forbes; Reuters.

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