UAE Residents Show Strong Interest in Electric Cars and Self-Driving Vehicles
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The UAE is making significant strides towards sustainable and innovative transport solutions, with two major announcements in the last few days. The first is the surge in interest in electric vehicles (EVs), with 70% of UAE residents strongly considering purchasing an EV in the future. The second is the approval for testing of self-driving vehicles on UAE roads, with WeRide, a Level 4 self-driving solutions provider, receiving the first license of its kind.
Growing Interest in Electric Vehicles in UAE
According to a survey conducted by General Motors and Morning Consult, 70% of UAE residents are strongly considering purchasing an EV in the future. This is attributed to the potential cost savings, increasing number of EV charging stations, and growing awareness of EV infrastructure in the country. The study also found that tackling the elevated cost of petrol and alleviating environmental concerns were the top drivers of increased EV consideration.
The survey further revealed that the general awareness of EVs in the UAE is very high, with 95% of respondents being aware of all-electric vehicles. As more electric cars hit the roads in the UAE, Al Futtaim Electric Mobility has announced plans to establish almost 3,000 charging points across the country by 2030.
Self-Driving Vehicles Approved for Testing on UAE Roads
Additionally, the UAE Cabinet recently granted the first-ever license for self-driving vehicles to operate on the country's roads, marking a significant milestone in the development of autonomous driving technology.
Level 4 autonomous driving technology is considered fully autonomous, although a human driver can still request control. WeRide provides software and hardware solutions for Level 4 autonomous driving technologies, offering smart services for on-demand transportation, online ride-hailing, urban logistics, and environmental services.
The UAE's national policy for electric vehicles includes building a network for EV charging devices, regulating the EV market, and stimulating related industries to ensure the reduction of emissions and energy consumption. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, stated that well-being, comfort, and quality of life for citizens and residents remain a top priority on the government's agenda.
Conclusion
The UAE's commitment to sustainable and innovative transport solutions is evident in the growing interest in EVs and the approval for testing of self-driving vehicles on UAE roads. The increasing number of EV charging stations and the awareness of EV infrastructure in the country are driving the surge in interest in EVs in the UAE. Meanwhile, WeRide's approval for testing its Level 4 autonomous driving technology is a significant step towards the adoption of smart and sustainable transport solutions in the UAE. With the government's support, the UAE is poised to lead the way in developing sustainable and innovative transport solutions.
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