Abu Dhabi is making strides in the realm of autonomous mobility with TXAI, the region’s first Level 4 autonomous vehicle
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
As we step onto the quiet, palm-lined streets of Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, a sleek white vehicle glides toward us — its tinted windows revealing no driver behind the wheel. This is TXAI, Abu Dhabi’s first Level 4 autonomous taxi, moving with precision through the city’s carefully mapped test zone. We watch it navigate seamlessly through traffic, stopping for pedestrians and adjusting to lane changes without human intervention.
TXAI IS Abu Dhabi’s first Level 4 autonomous taxi, moving with precision through the city’s carefully mapped test zone
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement
Launched in 2021 as a pilot initiative in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Mobility, TXAI represents a significant step towards the future of transportation, according to Space42 that developed the technology behind these driverless taxis. It is a subsidiary of G42, an Emirati artificial intelligence development holding company based in Abu Dhabi,that blendsArtificial Intelligence, geospatial analytics, and advanced sensor systems to navigate the complexities of urban traffic.
Fan Zhu, Senior Vice President, Autonomous Mobility at Space42, explains that TXAI operates autonomously within predefined urban areas, utilising a combination of LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), cameras, radar, and AI-driven decision-making. These elements allow the vehicle to detect, analyse, and predict the movements of other vehicles, pedestrians, and road obstacles in real time.
TXAI can execute smooth lane changes, merge safely into traffic, and proactively avoid potential hazards
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement
“With sophisticated path-planning algorithms, TXAI can execute smooth lane changes, merge safely into traffic, and proactively avoid potential hazards. In the case of sudden roadblocks or congestion, the system recalibrates its route to maintain optimal travel efficiency,” Fan Zhu says.
Safety remains the primary concern for Space42, and multiple layers of protective measures have been integrated into TXAI’s design. Fan Zhu says each vehicle undergoes rigorous testing in diverse environments to assess its ability to detect obstacles, respond to emergencies, and handle unpredictable road conditions. “The system is continuously updated with refined AI models, ensuring it stays ahead of emerging risks. A trained safety officer is always present in the vehicle, ready to intervene if needed, and redundant braking and steering mechanisms provide additional safeguards in the event of a technical failure,” he adds.
The vehicle has been cleared for on-road operations by Abu Dhabi Mobility and the Abu Dhabi Police
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement
To achieve precise navigation, TXAI employs Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) positioning and Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping (SLAM) technology. These innovations allow the vehicle to operate with centimetre-level accuracy, even in areas with weak GPS signals. By fusing data from multiple sensors, TXAI constructs a 360-degree view of its surroundings, allowing it to anticipate human-driven vehicles’ movements and adjust accordingly.
The vehicle has been cleared for on-road operations by Abu Dhabi Mobility and the Abu Dhabi Police. According to Fan Zhu, Space42 is in active discussions with authorities to expand TXAI’s operations beyond Yas Island and Saadiyat Island, where it is currently being piloted. Future plans involve integrating TXAI into Abu Dhabi’s broader transportation network, making it a seamless part of the city’s mobility ecosystem. Despite its technological advancements, TXAI is yet to incorporate specific features catering to passengers with disabilities.
TXAI is currently offered as a complimentary service to showcase Abu Dhabi’s advancements in smart mobility
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement
According to Fan Zhu, public reception to TXAI has been positive. Passengers who participated in the initial trial phase on Yas Island praised the service for its convenience and smooth experience. Feedback from users has contributed to further refinements, including adjustments for a more comfortable ride and improved user interfaces. “While TXAI is currently offered as a complimentary service to showcase Abu Dhabi’s advancements in smart mobility, discussions are ongoing about its future pricing structure compared to traditional taxis and ride-hailing services,” he explained.
The writer was in Abu Dhabi on invitation by the Abu Dhabi Media Office
Published – April 16, 2025 01:22 pm IST
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