In a boost to Qatar’s aspiration to become a hub for Electric Vehicles in the MENA region, the first Autonomous e-Mobility Forum kicked off yesterday at the Qatar National Convention Center (QNCC). The forum brings together stakeholders from around the world to discuss, present and develop policies and technologies for implementing driverless e-mobility, highlighting the growing global interest in its potential.
Both autonomous driving and electric vehicles are still under development. However, significant advancements are being made in both technologies. Many companies are actively developing self-driving technology, while electric vehicle adoption is rising globally at an exponential rate due to environmental concerns, ease of maintenance and government incentives.
Qatar has been always at the forefront of introducing all the latest technology which could sustainably better the lives of people. In this regard, Qatar has been implementing many projects and electrifying its public bus fleet has been one of the many. It has managed to electrify 73 percent of its total fleet till now and aims to have a 100 percent electric public bus fleet by 2030. This will catapult Doha to one of the top countries in the world to achieve zero emission in public transportation aligning with the Qatar National Environment and Climate Change Strategy.
As the Minister of Transport H E Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti mentioned during the inauguration of the forum this vital sector has successfully provided a safe and seamless mobility experience during the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023, where nearly 3.4 million fans were transported by buses and about 6.5 million fans used the Doha Metro and Lusail Tram. During the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, he said, around 18.2 million people were transported by the Doha Metro and Lusail Tram, and over 7 million passengers were transported by public buses.
Self-driving vehicles could optimize traffic flow, reducing congestion and travel times. Autonomous e-Mobility could also provide transportation options for people who cannot drive due to age, disability, or other reasons. Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to cleaner air and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Autonomous e-Mobility represents a future vision of transportation with the potential for a significant impact on safety, efficiency, accessibility, and sustainability. It’s still in its early stages and overcoming technological, regulatory, and social challenges will be crucial. Clear and comprehensive regulations and significant technological advancements to navigate complex road situations are all challenges ahead to govern the operation of autonomous vehicles. Platforms like Autonomous e-Mobility Forum will be a stepping stone to realise the full potential of Autonomous e-Mobility and for a safe and sustainable way of transportation.
