Latest news with #SmartandAutonomousSystemsCouncil
Gulf Insider
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Gulf Insider
Abu Dhabi's Masdar City Begins New Self-Driving Car Trials
Masdar City has commenced testing level 4 autonomous vehicles as part of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council's strategy, working in partnership with smart mobility provider Solutions+, a Mubadala company. The Integrated Transport Centre oversees the initiative, which involves registration, testing and operational approval of autonomous vehicles to ensure safety, compliance and alignment with Abu Dhabi's vision for smart mobility. The project demonstrates the emirate's commitment to driving innovation and shaping the future through technology whilst underlining Masdar City's role as a hub for clean technology and home to the Smart Autonomous Vehicles Industry cluster in advancing autonomous transport. Level 4 automation represents a leap in autonomous vehicle technology, enabling vehicles to operate entirely independently within a geofenced zone. Masdar City offers a 'real-world testbed' for sustainable mobility by inviting manufacturers to test their level 4 autonomous vehicles in its integrated urban ecosystem, the Abu Dhabi Media Office (ADMO) said in a statement. Ahmed Baghoum, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar City said: 'The announcement of level 4 testing marks a substantial leap forward in AV capabilities and we are proud that Masdar City is once again leading the field in the development of such a critical future technology. The initiative also aligns perfectly with our vision to shape the cities of the future through innovation, digital integration and environmental responsibility. By collaborating with partners like Solutions+, we are not only advancing autonomous vehicle technology but also contributing to a more sustainable and efficient urban landscape for all.' The proof of concept phase monitors the technology's performance within the UAE's real-world infrastructure and climatic conditions, delivering insights for development of autonomous transportation. Dr Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director-General of the ITC, added: 'This initiative marks a key milestone in Abu Dhabi's vision to embrace future transport technologies and reaffirms our commitment to providing an integrated regulatory environment that supports innovation and accelerates the adoption of smart mobility solutions. We are working to enable a sustainable and flexible transport model that enhances the emirate's competitiveness and supports its ambition to become a global hub for smart cities and sustainable mobility.' The vehicles follow a 2.4km test route linking locations including the Siemens building, North Car Park, My City Centre Masdar mall and Central Park, navigating past landmarks including the International Renewable Energy Agency headquarters, MC2 and The Link. The autonomous vehicles initially operate with safety officers onboard but will transition to operation from a centralised remote control room as the programme progresses. Ali Alyafei, Chief Operations Officer at Solutions+, explained: 'Partnering with Masdar City allows us to test our level 4 autonomous vehicles in a unique, real-world environment that combines cutting-edge infrastructure with a strong commitment to sustainability. This collaboration not only helps refine our technology but also demonstrates how innovative mobility solutions can contribute to building smarter, more efficient urban ecosystems aligned with the UAE's Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative.' The testing enables autonomous vehicles to be modified according to the UAE's requirements and operational infrastructure. Masdar City will assess performance, safety and adaptability during testing before considering deployment in line with Abu Dhabi Government regulations. The initiative underscores Masdar City's leadership in accelerating change and innovation through its Smart Mobility Cluster. By serving as a testbed for technologies, Masdar City helps shape the future of sustainable urban transportation and positions itself as an enabler of clean-tech advancements. The trials represent the latest milestone in the urban sustainability hub's commitment to autonomous vehicle development, following the introduction of the first generation of vehicles in 2010.
TECHx
3 days ago
- Automotive
- TECHx
Masdar City Begins Testing Level 4 Autonomous Vehicles
Home » Smart Cities » Masdar City Begins Testing Level 4 Autonomous Vehicles Masdar City has announced the launch of a new testing program for level 4 autonomous vehicles (AVs), as part of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC) strategy. The initiative is being implemented in partnership with Solutions+, a Mubadala company, and is overseen by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC). The project includes the registration, testing, and operational approval of AVs. It aims to ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and alignment with Abu Dhabi's broader vision for smart mobility. Officials reported that this initiative highlights Masdar City's role as a global clean-tech hub and the home of the Smart Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) cluster. The level 4 technology allows AVs to operate independently within a defined geofenced area. Masdar City is inviting global manufacturers to test their vehicles in its integrated, sustainable urban environment. Ahmed Baghoum, CEO of Masdar City, revealed that the level 4 testing represents a major step forward in AV capabilities. He emphasized the city's commitment to innovation, digital integration, and environmental responsibility. Dr. Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director-General of the ITC, said the initiative reinforces Abu Dhabi's dedication to future transport technologies. It supports an integrated regulatory framework that encourages innovation and promotes sustainable mobility. Ali Alyafei, COO at Solutions+, added that testing in Masdar City provides a valuable real-world environment combining advanced infrastructure and sustainability goals. The project supports the UAE's Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative. The proof-of-concept phase will examine AV performance under real-world conditions and UAE-specific climate challenges. The current 2.4km route connects several key locations including: Siemens building North Car Park My City Centre Masdar mall Central Park AVs will also navigate past landmarks like the International Renewable Energy Agency headquarters, MC2, and The Link. Initially, safety officers will ride in the vehicles, which will later be operated remotely from a control room. Masdar City will monitor safety, performance, and adaptability before considering wider deployment. This trial reflects the city's long-standing leadership in sustainable mobility. Masdar City first introduced AVs in 2010 and continues to serve as a testbed for advanced transportation technologies.
ARN News Center
14-06-2025
- Automotive
- ARN News Center
Watch: Abu Dhabi hosts test flight of pilotless air taxi
Abu Dhabi has taken a major leap into the future of transportation with a successful public test flight of a passenger electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, or eVTOL. The demonstration, supported by the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), was conducted in partnership with EHang and Multi Level Group. The autonomous flight showcased the EH216-S, the world's first certified pilotless two-seater eVTOL, designed for safe, zero-emission urban mobility. The aircraft's performance in Abu Dhabi's hot climate validated key technologies including airspace coordination and vertiport operations, under the oversight of the UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority. Officials say this marks a pivotal step toward integrating air taxis into everyday life, aligning with Abu Dhabi's vision for innovation and intelligent transport. EHang also announced plans to establish regional operations in the emirate, including a final assembly line and support facilities. Badr Al Olama, Director-General of ADIO called the flight a symbol of Abu Dhabi's ambition to lead in next-generation mobility, diversify its economy, and build homegrown capabilities. The latest demonstration lays the groundwork for future commercial deployment of urban air mobility in the UAE. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ARN News Centre (@arnnewscentre)
