The next time you get into a taxi in the UAE’s capital city, it may not have a driver.
Yep, Abu Dhabi just announced the launch date of its first self-driving vehicles, part of a new initiative called TXAI, that will transport people on Yas Island.
The service, available between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm, will be available through the new TXAI app, available in all stores.
The first phase will include five smart vehicles that provide transport services of passengers within a network of routes linking hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, offices and public facilities on Yas Island.
It’s being run in collaboration with Bayanat for Mapping and Surveying Services, a subsidiary of AI and cloud computing firm Group 42, and was announced by the Integrated Transport Centre and Department of Municipalities and Transport earlier today.
It’s been classified as Level 4 Autonomous Driving, which means the vehicle can perform all driving tasks under almost all conditions without any human intervention.
Although the vehicles will be self-driving, a safety officer will occupy the driving seat during the first and second operational phases, to intervene in the event of any sudden occurrence. That is to ensure that the highest standards of security and safety are implemented, according to the ITC and DMT.
“This project is one of the bold regional steps in employing accurate data-driven artificial intelligence techniques within the transport network, which is part of DMT and the Integrated Transport Centre’s efforts to provide innovative services that contribute to enhancing the quality of life in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and strengthen its position globally as one of the best destinations to live, work and invest, by employing all smart and modern technologies in all vital sectors serving the community,” said Falah Al Ahbabi, Chairman of DMT.
He added, “DMT is continuously working with its partners in Bayanat and Miral to test the safety of the vehicles, in addition to overseeing the operations to ensure that a state-of-the-art service is provided safely and distinctively, and to ensure compliance with the UAE traffic laws and regulations.”