Dubai launches new driverless pods: Dedicated routes, six passengers

Almost 10 months after Dubai announced plans to launch a network of small, self-driving electric vehicles, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) launched a four -week trial of the Dubai Glydways automated transit system at Bluewaters on Sunday.

The system features driverless electric pods that can carry up to six passengers and travel at speeds of up to 50km/h. They will operate on dedicated routes away from regular traffic and will be available on demand. The vehicles cover as much as 250km on a single battery charge.

Each capsule carries one passenger (or their accompanying group) without sharing it with strangers. Developed by American company Glydways, linked to the metro network as part of the emirate's long-term strategy to address traffic congestion. Passengers can also personalise the air conditioning and entertainment inside their pods.

Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, officially launched the trial after taking a five-minute journey in one of the autonomous vehicles.

The trial will run for four weeks, during which RTA will assess the vehicles’ safety, reliability, journey times and passenger experience before considering wider deployment. The initiative is being implemented in partnership with Glydways and Dubai Holding.

How does it work?

The pods operate using artificial intelligence, sensors, radar and cameras to navigate their routes without human drivers. Each pod boasts 20 high-resolution LiDAR sensors, alongside radar and high-definition cameras. These systems help monitor the surrounding environment and vehicle movements.

The system can virtually link more than 10 vehicles, with intervals of less than one second between them, allowing large numbers of passengers to be transported efficiently.

The fares will be similar to a bus or train ticket, with a booking system akin to hailing a taxi.