Driverless shuttle begins test phase in Abu Dhabi’s Masdar City

Abu Dhabi: Masdar City in Abu Dhabi has officially launched testing of autonomous vehicles. The initiative was highlighted during the opening of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) on Tuesday.

As the Strategic Partner of the World Future Energy Summit - part of ADSW - Masdar City is showcasing its autonomous vehicle initiatives, engaging with policymakers and industry leaders.

The first vehicle undergoing testing is a shuttle-style electric vehicle equipped with advanced LIDAR sensors and software that enable it to navigate obstacles, detect other vehicles, and drive independently. These trials represent just the beginning of a series of tests featuring vehicles from multiple global brands. Masdar City plans to deploy a fleet of seven advanced autonomous vehicles, selected based on these tests, to align with its zero-emission transportation goals.

Ahmed Baghoum, CEO of Masdar City, said: “These tests mark a significant step toward creating a truly sustainable transportation ecosystem. By collaborating with global innovators, we aim to position Masdar City as a global benchmark for zero-emission autonomous mobility. Testing a diverse range of self-driving technologies will help us identify the best solutions for our community and beyond.”

The initiative is part of Masdar City’s larger strategy to establish a fleet of autonomous vehicles that align with its zero-emission transportation goals. This includes plans to test multiple advanced mobility solutions from various global companies. Solution+, the official fleet operator, is partnering with Masdar City to oversee operations as part of the city’s growing autonomous vehicle network.

The Mobility Cluster at Masdar City serves as a hub for advancing sustainable and autonomous mobility solutions. Masdar City is also home to the Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industries (SAVI). This ecosystem facilitates the testing of new concepts and accelerates the deployment of transformative mobility solutions tailored to the Middle East’s unique environment.