14 Oct October 14, 2018 RTA to unveil a series of smart initiatives at Gitex The autonomous cab will be part of a series of smart technology initiatives that the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is all set to unveil at the Gitex Techology Week that begins on Sunday. On a test run, the autonomous taxis with self-driving capabilities will be on display at the RTA’s stand at Gitex. It will be demonstrated alongside a host of other exhibits including Dubai Metro spare parts manufactured through 3D printing, AI-based automated Chat Bot system, Robotic Cleaners for Dubai Metro stations and a customer loyalty programme for Nol users. Mattar Al Tayer , Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) said that the launch of these new initiatives and smart services is part of efforts to transform Dubai into the smartest city in the world. The new initiatives also contribute to the implementation of the Dubai Smart Self-Driving Mobility Strategy that aims to transform 25 percent of Dubai’s total journeys into self-driving transit means by 2030, besides integrating mass transit modes, and bringing happiness to people. “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. Dedicated route “The vehicle, which will be tentatively run on dedicated routes at the Dubai Silicon Oasis, has top safety and security standards. It is equipped with cameras and sensors that fully view traffic and road conditions, control the vehicle and avoid collision,” said Al Tayer. He added the autonomous taxi is ideal as a “last-mile solution”, helping commuters connect with mass transport systems such as Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram. At the technology week, RTA will also launch the Customers Loyalty Points Programme (Nol Plus), the first of its kind at the Dubai Government, enabling Nol card users to earn points when using the card in traveling on public transport modes. Among the exhibits at RTA stand will also be an automated Chat Bot System using Artificial Intelligence, which responds to customers’ inquiries via smart communication channels. A series of other technological initiatives will also be unveiled throughout the week, including an update electronic taxi booking system or e-hail, a new generation of technical testing of vehicles, and the Robot Cleaner Initiative designed to clean the floors of Dubai Metro stations. Source: GN
