UAE residents are set to experience a new wave of transportation, as the region’s first AI-powered smart taxis are expected to hit the roads in two months. Unveiled by Hyundai UAE at the Abu Dhabi Smart City Summit, the Hyundai AI Smart Taxi promises a combination of advanced artificial intelligence, state-of-the-art interior systems, and seamless streaming services.
The taxi, a Sonata hybrid car donned in silver typical of the Capital’s public cabs, signifies the beginning of a new age of transportation safety, security, and AI integration, as expressed by Suliman Al Zaben, director of Hyundai UAE. Al Zaben emphasized the significance, stating, “This is the region’s first AI smart taxi. This is the first-ever total taxi solution integrated into the body of a vehicle.”
One of the standout features of these taxis is their AI-equipped cameras, totaling four in each car. These cameras monitor various aspects such as the driver’s alertness, reaction times, and other vital safety indicators. A facial recognition feature ensures safety by identifying potential unsafe situations, such as a driver becoming drowsy. Additionally, the taxis incorporate a global-first lost-and-found system. This feature can detect items passengers may leave behind, immediately alerting the driver to the forgotten item.
Utilizing Edge computing, the taxi ensures quicker response times and bandwidth conservation. Passengers are also privy to two interactive screens detailing trip specifics, tourist destinations, and driver information. The vehicle’s technical equipment facilitates the gathering of live data for remote oversight and swift action if necessary.
Al Zaben praised the initiative as another significant achievement for Juma Al Majid Establishment, the sole distributor of Hyundai cars in the UAE, reinforcing the country’s vision for smart mobility in the coming future. He concluded by confirming a nation-wide launch, saying, “You will see it on the road very soon. It will be a pan-UAE launch.”
