RTA Rolls Out Trial of First ‘Autonomous Taxi’ in Dubai
HE Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced the launch of a host of smart initiatives & services as part of RTA’s participation at GITEX 2018.
The event will witness the test run of the first ‘Autonomous taxi’ in the region, and the Customers Loyalty Program known as nol Plus.
Other exhibits include Dubai Metro spare parts manufactured through 3D printing, AI-based automated Chat Bot system, Robotic Cleaners for Dubai Metro stations along with a diverse cast of other smart initiatives.
The new initiatives also contribute to the implementation of the Dubai Smart Self-Driving Mobility Strategy that aims to transform 25% of Dubai's total journeys into self-driving transit means by 2030, besides integrating mass transit modes, and bringing happiness to people.
Autonomous Taxi
Said Al Tayer: "At GITEX, RTA will start the test run of the first ‘Autonomous taxi’ designed in partnership with Dubai Silicon Oasis and DG World for robots and artificial applications.
“The vehicle, which will be tentatively run on dedicated routes at the Dubai Silicon Oasis, has top safety & security standards. It is equipped with cameras and sensors that fully view traffic and road conditions, controls the vehicle and avoids collision.
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“The ‘Autonomous taxi’ contributes to the integration of mass transport systems by facilitating the movement of public transport users, specifically Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram, to reach their final destinations (last mile).
RTA will also launch the Customers Loyalty Points Program (nol Plus), the first of its kind at the Dubai Government. It enables nol card users to earn points when using the card in travelling on public transport means.
RTA will display samples of Dubai Metro spare parts manufactured through 3D-printing technology. The process is characterised as timesaving, high quality and cost-effective.
Elaborating further Al Tayer said: ”RTA will also exhibit the Automated Chat Bot System using Artificial Intelligence, which responds to customers’ inquiries via smart communication channels.
“Other projects on display include Al Merqab (e-Hail); a system for electronic booking companies, a new generation of technical testing of vehicles based on sophisticated technologies; and the Robot Cleaner Initiative designed to clean the floors of Dubai Metro stations.
“RTA will also show the new generation of real-time screens for passenger information fitted with new add-ons such as journey planning and downloading journey timetables in mobile phones, among other AI initiatives.”
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Al Tayer continued: "The new services to be displayed at GITEX include the Dubai Integrated Mobility Platform (S’hail) enabling customers to access all transport means in Dubai through a single window (Smart App), rendering Dubai the first city worldwide to develop such an integrated platform.
“RTA will also highlight the ‘Dubai Drive,’ an upgraded version of Drivers & Vehicles App’ integrated with Salik services.
“It enables customers to directly speak to RTA’s customer service staff members and keep in touch with the latest services such as paying parking fees, topping up Salik cards, inquiring about traffic violations and paying fines related to traffic, Salik and parking.”
RTA focuses on the migration to smart & innovative services. Following the transformation of all services to smartphones and e-channels, RTA is currently working on smart mobility and modern technologies that support the integration of transport means and services.
