Dubai South completes autonomous vehicle trials
17 July 2024
Dubai South, an urban master development focused on aviation, logistics and real estate, has completed the first stage of an autonomous vehicle trial in partnership with Russian transport solutions company Evocargo.
The trials were carried out on a set route in a closed area of the Dubai South Logistics District, Dubai South said on 17 July.
During the trials, Evocargo checked and validated the hardware, software and reliability of its unmanned electric truck – the Evocargo N1 – for future service in the Logistics District.
According to Dubai South, autonomous navigation on a predefined route was tested, with an emphasis on safety in mixed traffic scenarios involving interaction with other participants including automobiles, trucks and pedestrians.
The tests measured Evocargo N1’s performance in object detection, accident prevention, collision avoidance with moving obstacles and emergency stops.
The truck’s autopilot system was tested in manoeuvres including parking, reverse parking, turning and reverse turning.
The test also validated the control centre's functionality in route management, remote monitoring and control.
Dubai South said that no failures or potentially hazardous incidents were reported by any parties during the series of tests.
Evocargo prepared a report on the trial results across two stages, including the Evocargo N1 platform carrying out freight transportation tasks on a standard route in a closed area.
Dubai South said: “The platform’s ability to respond to its surrounding environment in mixed traffic was extensively tested and met high validation standards.”
Dubai South and Evocargo agreed to carry out the UAE’s first autonomous electric vehicle trials in a memorandum of understanding signed in December 2022.
The initiative contributes to Dubai’s long-term goal that 25% of total transportation in the emirate will be autonomous by 2030.
Related read: UAE among world’s most prepared for autonomous vehicles
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Siemens Energy wins $1.6bn Saudi deal
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Chinese engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractor Harbin Electric International has awarded Germany’s Siemens Energy a contract to supply combined-cycle gas turbine (CCGT) units for the Rumah 2 and Nairiyah 2 independent power projects (IPPs) in Saudi Arabia.
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Chinese builders go global
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EditorRead the March MEED Business Review
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