Historic Approval: UAE Grants National License for Self-Driving Vehicles
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has taken a significant step in embracing autonomous technology by approving the first national licence for self-driving vehicles. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced on Twitter that WeRide has been granted the preliminary licence. This marks a milestone in the country’s journey towards a future where self-driving vehicles become an integral part of everyday transportation.
Future Mobility Patterns: WeRide Receives Preliminary License
During a recent UAE Cabinet meeting chaired by Sheikh Mohammed, the approval of WeRide’s preliminary licence was confirmed. With this licence, the company will commence testing various types of autonomous vehicles in the country. Sheikh Mohammed’s tweet emphasised that this move reflects a shift in the UAE’s future mobility patterns, highlighting the government’s commitment to exploring innovative transportation solutions.
Global Operations: WeRide’s Headquarters and Research Centers
WeRide, headquartered in Guangzhou, China, has established centres in multiple cities worldwide, including Abu Dhabi. The company focuses on conducting autonomous driving research and operations in over 26 cities globally. This international presence enables WeRide to leverage diverse environments and gain valuable insights to enhance the development and deployment of self-driving technology.
Expanding Autonomous Fleet: Products Offered by WeRide
WeRide’s portfolio encompasses a range of autonomous vehicles, catering to different transportation needs. The company offers robotaxis, robo buses, robo vans for delivery services, and robot sweepers capable of operating 24 hours a day, regardless of weather conditions. With this diverse lineup, WeRide aims to demonstrate the versatility and reliability of self-driving vehicles in various contexts.
Promoting Sustainable Transportation: Approval of Federal Electric Vehicles Policy
In addition to the groundbreaking licence for self-driving vehicles, Sheikh Mohammed also announced the approval of a federal electric vehicles policy. This policy aims to establish a comprehensive network of electric vehicle chargers across the nation, regulate the electric vehicle market, and promote associated industries. By doing so, the UAE strives to achieve lower emissions and energy consumption, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable transport sector. The policy targets a 20% reduction in energy consumption within the transportation industry.
The UAE’s approval of the first national licence for self-driving vehicles signifies a significant milestone in the country’s pursuit of autonomous technology. With WeRide receiving the preliminary licence, the UAE is actively fostering an environment conducive to the development and testing of self-driving vehicles. Furthermore, the approval of a federal electric vehicles policy showcases the government’s commitment to sustainable transportation and reducing energy consumption within the transport sector. As the UAE paves the way for innovative mobility solutions, the future holds promising advancements in autonomous technology and electric vehicles.
