cruise strikes deal to launch robotaxi service in dubai
Cruise Expands Robotaxi Operations to Dubai
Cruise, the autonomous vehicle company owned by GM and backed by investors including SoftBank Vision Fund, Microsoft, and Honda, is extending its robotaxi services internationally. A new agreement will facilitate the launch of a robotaxi service in Dubai during 2023.
Deployment of the Cruise Origin
The Dubai-based robotaxi fleet will utilize the Cruise Origin, a purpose-built, all-electric vehicle. Notably, the Origin is designed without traditional driver controls like steering wheels or pedals and is engineered for operation at highway speeds.
GM will handle the manufacturing of the Origin, which was initially revealed in January 2020.
Establishing a Local Presence
Cruise is establishing a dedicated Dubai-based company to oversee all aspects of the robotaxi service. This includes the deployment, operational management, and ongoing maintenance of the vehicle fleet.
Phased Rollout and Expansion Plans
Initial service will commence with a limited number of vehicles. Plans are in place to progressively increase the fleet size to 4,000 vehicles by the year 2030.
This expansion aligns with Dubai’s broader self-driving transport strategy, as outlined by Mattar Mohammed Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the board of the RTA.
The introduction of the robotaxis, and the service itself, will be implemented incrementally. Operation will initially be confined to designated areas before expanding city-wide.
Dubai’s Self-Driving Transport Vision
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Dubai’s Crown Prince, highlighted the agreement with Cruise as a significant advancement. It represents a key step towards achieving Dubai’s goal of converting 25% of all trips within the city to self-driving transport by 2030, encompassing various modes of transportation.
Exclusive Partnership
Cruise has secured exclusive rights within Dubai for a considerable period. The agreement designates Cruise as the “exclusive provider” of self-driving taxis and ride-hailing services in Dubai until 2029.
According to Al Tayer, the decision to partner with Cruise followed a thorough and extensive evaluation process spanning multiple years.
Kirsten Korosec
Kirsten Korosec: A Leading Voice in Transportation Technology
For over ten years, Kirsten Korosec has been a dedicated journalist and editor focusing on the evolving landscape of transportation.
Her reporting encompasses a wide range of topics, including electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous vehicles, urban air mobility, and the latest advancements in in-car technology.
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