KAUST's Fuel Lubricants Efficient Engine Technology (FLEET) Consortium, established with OSP last year, added Luberef and Ferrari as new members. FLEET has completed six projects in its first year, including studying liquid spray and combustion, developing fuel cells, and capturing energy from ship engines. Eight new projects have been announced, including lubricant exploration for electric and hydrogen vehicles and improving hydrogen engine performance. Why it matters: The expansion of FLEET and its new projects underscore Saudi Arabia's commitment to carbon neutrality through collaborative research and development in sustainable transportation technologies.
KAUST has launched self-driving shuttles on its campus, making it the first adopter of autonomous vehicles in Saudi Arabia. The pilot project utilizes vehicle technology from Local Motors and EasyMile. SAPTCO will operate the autonomous shuttles and manage operations with Saudi staff. Why it matters: This initiative advances Saudi Arabia's 2030 Vision and positions KAUST as a regional leader in smart city development and AI research.
KAUST researchers participated in COP28 in Dubai, showcasing environmental research from sustainable construction to coral restoration. Professor William Roberts presented cryogenic carbon capture, while Professor Hussein Hoteit demonstrated carbon dioxide removal and underground hydrogen storage. A KAUST spinout, ClimateCrete™, launched technology to make local sand suitable for concrete, reducing carbon emissions by up to 60%. Why it matters: KAUST's presence at COP28 highlights the institution's role in driving regional climate solutions and fostering public-private partnerships for environmental sustainability.
KAUST and the WEF's Fourth Industrial Revolution Center co-hosted a workshop on the responsible adoption of autonomous transport systems in Saudi Arabia. The workshop brought together experts from universities, government, and private sectors to harmonize policies and regulations. Discussions focused on experimental testing, aligning goals with global standards, and forming a community of stakeholders. Why it matters: This initiative signals Saudi Arabia's proactive approach to integrating autonomous technologies into its transportation sector in a safe and regulated manner, aligning with its "Future of Transportation" initiative.
Dirk Ahlborn discussed the future of transport in his WEP keynote address at KAUST on January 11. He specifically addressed the Hyperloop concept. Why it matters: Such discussions at leading institutions signal growing interest in innovative transport solutions within the region.