Researchers propose MS-NN-steer, a model-structured neural network for autonomous vehicle steering control that integrates nonlinear vehicle dynamics. The controller was validated using real-world data from the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) competition. MS-NN-steer demonstrates improved accuracy, generalization, and robustness compared to general-purpose NNs and the A2RL winning team's controller. Why it matters: This research demonstrates a promising approach to developing transparent and reliable AI for safety-critical autonomous racing applications in the UAE.
Virgin Hyperloop is collaborating with Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) in Abu Dhabi to develop an AI-powered operating system for its hyperloop transport system. The operating system aims to optimize the hyperloop's operations, including fleet management and vehicle movement, for the proposed 1,080 kph system. Co-founder Josh Giegel highlighted the Gulf's keen interest and involvement in the project, with Dubai's DP World being a major investor. Why it matters: This partnership signifies the UAE's growing role in cutting-edge transportation technology and the application of AI in optimizing complex systems, potentially revolutionizing regional and global transport.
MBZUAI and Virgin Hyperloop have signed an MoU to collaborate on AI research and innovation for the transportation sector. The partnership will focus on joint research in computer vision, cloud computing, and commercial projects in smart transportation. Hyperloop aims to transport passengers and goods at speeds exceeding 1,000km/h, becoming a sustainable means of mass transportation. Why it matters: This collaboration highlights the UAE's focus on using AI to advance transportation technology and its ambition to become a global hub for innovation in the region.
TII-EuroRacing Team, comprised of researchers from TII's ARRC and UNIMORE, is participating in the Indy Autonomous Challenge (IAC) at CES 2023 in Las Vegas. The team will compete with its DO12 racecar, a Dallara AV-21 retrofitted with automation hardware and advanced prototype software. The IAC aims to accelerate the commercialization of fully autonomous vehicles and advanced driver assistance systems. Why it matters: This participation allows TII to test and improve its autonomous vehicle technology in a dynamic environment, contributing to the advancement of autonomous systems in the region.
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.
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.
This article discusses the application of uncertain time series (UTS) approach to manage and analyze big traffic data for high-resolution vehicular transportation services. The study addresses challenges such as data sparseness, decision-making among multiple UTSs, and future forecasting with spatio-temporal correlations. Jilin Hui, previously a Research Associate at the Inception Institute of Artificial Intelligence (UAE), is applying this approach to solve problems related to increased congestion, greenhouse gas emissions, and reduced air quality in urban environments. Why it matters: The application of AI techniques to traffic management could significantly improve urban mobility and environmental sustainability in the GCC region and beyond.
MBZUAI students achieved top honors at the 2022 Dubai Roads and Transport Authority’s (RTA) Transport Hackathon. Sultan Abu Ghazal and his team developed Scooty, an app for scooter safety monitoring that rewards users for rule adherence. Muhammad Uzair Khattak led a team that created Salem, a mobile application to monitor motorcycle delivery drivers' safety and reduce traffic infractions by using computer vision and mobile sensors. Why it matters: The hackathon win highlights the practical AI skills being developed at MBZUAI and their application to real-world transportation challenges in the UAE.