Yas Island to expand robotaxi services

The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), affiliated with the Department of Municipalities and Transport in Abu Dhabi, under the supervision of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council, announced the expansion of the existing commercial operation of autonomous taxi services on Yas Island, in cooperation with “Apollo Go”, a subsidiary of the Chinese company “Baidu”, and the local service operator “AutoGo”, a subsidiary of “K2”, as a new additional operator in the system.

This step follows the successful completion of testing and operational trials by the operator on Yas Island, and the transition to the commercial operation phase for Level 4 autonomous taxis, with a view to expanding its services later to include Reem Island, Al Maryah Island, and Saadiyat Island. The service can be requested via the “AutoGo” smart application available on Android and Apple stores.

Hamad Al Afifi, CEO of the Smart Transport Systems Sector at the Centre, said, “The joining of a new operator for the commercial operation of autonomous taxis in the region represents a pivotal step in the Centre’s efforts to regulate and develop the smart and sustainable mobility system in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

This addition confirms the Emirate’s position as a leading and attractive destination for advanced technologies, in addition to the readiness of regulatory and operational frameworks supporting the commercial operation of Level 4 autonomous vehicles, according to the highest standards of safety and efficiency.”

Waleed Al Balushi, Vice President of Strategy at “K2”, said, “The start of operations at the beginning of the year reflects our focus on implementation mechanisms and achieving a sustainable long-term impact. Providing free rides at this stage enables the public to experience autonomous mobility as a practical option for daily life, and lays the foundation for the expansion and organised commercial operation phase.”

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter