**Abu Dhabi**: The Integrated Transport Centre is expanding its Autonomous RoboTaxi service through collaborations with Autogo and Baidu-owned Apollo Go, aiming for a full launch by 2026 to boost smart, safe, and sustainable urban mobility across the Emirate.
The Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) has announced the expansion of its Autonomous RoboTaxi service as part of a strategic collaboration with Autogo, a leader in autonomous mobility solutions and a subsidiary of Kintsugi Holding. This initiative also includes a partnership with Apollo Go, which is owned by China’s Baidu, recognised globally for its advancements in autonomous vehicle technologies. This development is seen as a significant step forward in the Emirate’s objective to enhance smart and autonomous mobility solutions.
The trials for the expanded service are intended to serve as a preparatory phase leading up to the full-scale launch slated for 2026. This expansion aligns with Abu Dhabi’s vision to deliver integrated, smart transport solutions that not only improve the quality of life for residents but also support a broader digital transformation within the Emirate. The initiative is firmly grounded in aligning with local transport strategies, regulatory frameworks, and infrastructure requirements, ensuring that the integration of advanced technological solutions occurs within a structured and compliant environment.
The latest iteration of the RoboTaxi, known as the sixth generation RT6, has been designed with a keen focus on providing a seamless mobility experience. It incorporates an advanced electric design and is embedded with AI-powered systems that facilitate precise navigation and quick reactions to dynamic road conditions. According to the Integrated Transport Centre, these vehicles are intended to promote road safety by mitigating human errors, while also acting as a more environmentally friendly option through reduced emissions and decreased traffic congestion.
Dr Abdulla AlGhfeli, Acting Director-General of the Integrated Transport Centre, stated: “The expansion of the autonomous RoboTaxi service in Abu Dhabi marks a pivotal milestone in our journey towards smart mobility. It aligns with our vision to deliver innovative transport solutions that enhance quality of life and support the Emirate’s digital transformation efforts. We are committed to leveraging the latest technologies to make mobility smarter and safer, while reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global leader in this field.”
In elaborating on the strategic partnership, he remarked: “This collaboration with Autogo reflects Abu Dhabi Mobility’s commitment to keeping pace with global advancements in autonomous transport and supporting innovations that enhance the efficiency and sustainability of the mobility ecosystem, contributing to the Emirate’s vision for the future.”
Sean Teo, General Manager of Kintsugi Holding, added that the operational phase of the RoboTaxi service marks a transformative shift in urban mobility. He highlighted that autonomous taxis could greatly enhance road safety and contribute to more sustainable transport solutions, reaffirming the significance of this development within the United Arab Emirates.
This initiative is not only pivotal for the immediate rollout of the RoboTaxi service but also serves as part of Abu Dhabi Mobility’s comprehensive strategy to methodically evaluate performance in real-world conditions. Engaging road users will be a key component as the groundwork is laid for the anticipated full deployment across the Emirate by 2026.
Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://www.pakistanpoint.com/en/story/1953299/autogo-begins-robotaxi-trials-in-abu-dhabi-ahead-of-ful.html – This article discusses Autogo’s initiation of RoboTaxi trials in Abu Dhabi, highlighting the collaboration with the Integrated Transport Centre and the alignment with local transport strategies and regulatory frameworks.
- https://www.middleeastainews.com/p/rta-uber-weride-robotaxi-partnership – This source details the partnership between Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Uber, and WeRide to create robotaxi services in Dubai, supporting the UAE’s Self-Driving Transport Strategy.
- https://www.iotworldtoday.com/transportation-logistics/baidu-wants-to-roll-out-its-self-driving-taxis-beyond-china – This article covers Baidu’s plans to expand its Apollo Go robotaxi service globally, including discussions about potential international markets and collaborations.
- https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/baidu-to-add-200-fully-driverless-robotaxis-to-fleet-in-2023-aiming-for-worlds-largest-fully-driverless-ride-hailing-area-301711296.html – This press release announces Baidu’s plan to add 200 fully driverless robotaxis to its fleet in 2023, aiming to create the world’s largest fully driverless ride-hailing area.
- https://www.icartea.com/en/news/robotaxi-arrives-in-the-middle-east-baidu-to-operate-apollo-go-in-the-uae – This article reports on Baidu’s plans to operate its Apollo Go robotaxi service in the UAE, marking its second international expansion destination.
- https://www.samenacouncil.org/samena_daily_news?news=104433 – This source discusses Baidu’s talks to launch a driverless ride-hailing service in the UAE, highlighting the country’s embrace of smart city technologies and its potential as a hub for autonomous vehicles.
- https://abudhabimagazine.ae/64253/ – Please view link – unable to able to access data
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
9
Notes:
No indications of outdated information found. Mentions future plans (2026 launch) and strategic partnerships with Autogo and Apollo Go, suggesting current relevance. The narrative does not appear recycled from older articles, and details align with recent developments in autonomous mobility.
Quotes check
Score:
8
Notes:
Quotes attributed to Dr Abdulla AlGhfeli and Sean Teo appear original, with no clear prior references found online. Direct quotes align with the narrative’s focus on strategic partnerships and technological advancements, indicating likely authenticity.
Source reliability
Score:
7
Notes:
The narrative originates from Abu Dhabi Magazine, a regional publication with limited global recognition compared to major international outlets. However, partnerships with Autogo (Kintsugi Holding) and Baidu’s Apollo Go lend credibility to the claims.
Plausability check
Score:
9
Notes:
Claims are plausible given Abu Dhabi’s documented focus on smart mobility and existing projects involving autonomous vehicles. Partnerships with established firms like Baidu’s Apollo Go support the technical feasibility. No immediate red flags detected.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): PASS
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): HIGH
Summary:
The article presents a credible update on Abu Dhabi’s autonomous taxi expansion, supported by plausible partnerships and forward-looking timelines. Quotes appear original, and the regional publication’s narrative aligns with known smart mobility initiatives.
