The modular vehicles, developed by “NExT,” are smart, adjustable, and configurable units; they can be connected or disconnected based on the number of passengers and operating requirements, allowing individual units to operate during low-demand times, or forming a short “urban train” during peak hours, which contributes to reducing traffic congestion and carbon emissions without the need to build new infrastructure.
The first operational trial of these multi-unit vehicles is currently underway on Yas Island, in cooperation with the Emirates Driving Institute, “Liftango” and “Paradigma Innovation Hub,” and it is also planned to be used as a platform for testing intelligent operating and remote control systems, in preparation for the gradual expansion of autonomous driving applications in Abu Dhabi.
Dr. Abdullah Hamad Al Ghafri, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre, confirmed that this initiative represents a strategic shift towards developing a more integrated, intelligent, and sustainable transport system. Antonio Guadagnino from “NExT” stated that these vehicles offer a practical and immediately applicable solution to address the challenges of traffic congestion and provide first and last mile services, in addition to shaping the future of urban transport over the next decade. (Al Ain)
