I think you're describing SAE level 4, while the parent is arguing for level 3 being unsafe. Level 3 means the user has to take over from an active driving situ

I think you're describing SAE level 4, while the parent is arguing for level 3 being unsafe. Level 3 means the user has to take over from an active driving situation within a pre-specified time period, whereas level 4 means the car will always be able to hand over in a "safe" state (an thus with unbounded response time).