Dubai Set to Introduce Driverless Taxis by End of 2023
Dubai is set to deploy ten self-driving taxis for public use in the Jumeirah area by the end of 2023, according to Khaled Al Awadhi, the director of Transportation Systems, Public Transport Agency at Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). In an exclusive interview with Khaleej Times, Al Awadhi confirmed that the fares for these autonomous taxis will be comparable to limo taxis, which are usually priced 30% higher than regular taxis in Dubai. The move is part of Dubai RTA's plan to gradually deploy 4,000 driverless cabs across Dubai by 2030.
Self-Driving Taxis
The ten self-driving taxis to be deployed in Dubai will be Chevrolet Bolt models, the same vehicles used by Cruise, a US-based self-driving technology company and a subsidiary of General Motors (GM), for data collection and testing of the technology in the Jumeirah 1 area. These autonomous vehicles are equipped with a suite of sensors, including LiDAR, cameras, and radars, to detect the shapes of objects and determine distances.
Exclusive Partnership with Cruise
Dubai has partnered exclusively with Cruise to commercialize self-driving cars in the city until 2030, making it the first non-US city to do so. Cruise's self-driving taxis are all-electric and emission-free, aligning with Dubai's focus on smart mobility and advanced technology. The data collection and testing phase in Dubai aims to ensure Cruise's advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous driving systems adapt safely to the city's traffic conditions.
Positive Impact on Transportation Landscape
The launch of autonomous vehicles in Dubai is expected to have a positive impact on the city's transportation landscape and well-being. According to Ahmed Hashem Bahrozyan, CEO of RTA's Public Transport Agency, autonomous vehicles can alleviate traffic congestion, reduce the number of traffic accidents, and lower harmful emissions.
Initial Rollout in Jumeirah Area
The initial rollout of the ten self-driving Cruise taxis will be limited to the Jumeirah area, chosen for its strategic location and historic tourist attractions, as stated by Al Awadhi. The route will be between the Etihad Museum and Dubai Water Canal, covering an 8km stretch along Sheikh Zayed Road to the beachside in Jumeirah.
This means that commuters can enjoy riding a driverless taxi when visiting popular destinations such as La Mer Beach, Mercato Mall, Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, Galleria Mall, Box Park, or any of the numerous restaurants and cafes along Jumeirah and Al Wasl roads.
Future Plans
In addition to the three-passenger Chevrolet Bolt EV, Al Awadhi revealed that Cruise plans to roll out its shuttle-like Cruise Origin in Dubai, which can accommodate up to six passengers. The Cruise Origin is the result of a multi-year collaboration between Cruise, GM, and Honda, and is designed for a ridesharing service. It features a spacious interior with seats facing each other, personal USB ports, and digital displays providing information about the rides.
The Road Ahead
The deployment of driverless taxis in Dubai by the end of 2023 is a significant step towards achieving the city's goal of becoming a global leader in smart mobility and advanced technology. The use of autonomous vehicles is expected to have several benefits, including reducing traffic congestion, lowering the number of traffic accidents, and minimizing harmful emissions. The initial rollout in the Jumeirah area will provide residents and tourists with a convenient and futuristic mode of transportation, with plans to gradually expand to other locations in Dubai.
Safety Measures
Dubai's RTA has assured that safety is a top priority in the deployment of driverless taxis. The Cruise self-driving taxis will be equipped with advanced sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence technology to ensure safe and reliable operations. Additionally, there will be a safety operator on board at all times to take control of the vehicle if needed. The vehicles will also be constantly monitored from a remote command center to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Economic Impact
The introduction of driverless taxis in Dubai is expected to have a positive economic impact as well. It is projected to create new job opportunities in the autonomous vehicle industry, from vehicle maintenance and operations to software development and data analysis. The increased use of electric and emission-free vehicles like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Cruise Origin is also expected to contribute towards Dubai's sustainability goals, reducing carbon emissions and promoting a greener transportation system.
