Dubai South Completes Autonomous Vehicle Trials

Dubai South, the largest single-urban master development focusing on aviation, logistics, and real estate, has announced the successful completion of the first stage of the UAE’s autonomous vehicle trials in partnership with Evocargo.

The trials were conducted on a designated route within the Dubai South Logistics District. The primary goal was to validate the hardware, software, and overall reliability of the Evocargo N1 unmanned electric truck for future service in the Logistics District. The tests focused on autonomous navigation, safety in mixed traffic scenarios, object detection, accident prevention, collision avoidance, and emergency stops.

Evocargo’s autopilot system was tested across various maneuvers, including parking, reverse parking, turning, and reverse turning. The control center’s functionality, including route management, remote monitoring, and control, was also assessed. Notably, no failures or hazardous incidents were reported during the trials.

A comprehensive report of the trial results was prepared by Evocargo, covering two stages. In the second stage, the Evocargo N1 platform carried out freight transportation tasks on a standard route within a closed area, successfully responding to its surrounding environment in mixed traffic and meeting high validation standards.

Mohsen Ahmad, CEO of the Logistics District – Dubai South, stated, “We are proud of this groundbreaking milestone, which is a testament to Dubai South’s commitment to aligning with the wise leadership’s vision of establishing Dubai as a global logistics powerhouse. Our collaboration with Evocargo reinforced the UAE’s position in the industry and set a progressive stage for significant advancements within the regional logistics sector. As we look to the future, autonomous vehicles will play a pivotal role in revolutionizing the industry, enhancing efficiency, and reducing the overall carbon footprint to create a sustainable and technologically advanced logistics infrastructure that will benefit Dubai and the UAE.”

Ahmed Al-Ansi, CEO of Evocargo Autonomous Logistic Services, added, “The trials aim to attract new customers and investments in the GCC countries, which are on track for world leadership in innovative tech. We are proud to be a pioneer and one of the first commercial suppliers of cutting-edge services in cargo transportation based on our own electric unmanned vehicles.”

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. This successful trial marks a significant step forward in the region’s logistics and transportation sectors, setting a new standard for efficiency and sustainability.

Autonomous vehicles like the Evocargo N1 are poised to enhance operational efficiency and reduce carbon footprints, contributing to a sustainable and technologically advanced logistics infrastructure in Dubai and the UAE. Dubai South continues to lead the way in smart logistics and innovative transportation solutions.