Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled legislation to streamline trials of autonomous vehicles.
The emirate is aiming for 25% of trips to be made using self-driving means by 2030 under the Dubai Smart Mobility Strategy. The objective of the strategy is to reduce the cost of transport, carbon emissions and accidents, as well as saving hours wasted in traffic.
The legislation implements Resolution No (3) of the Executive Council Regulating Test Runs of Autonomous Vehicles in Dubai, making concerned parties aware of rules to test the vehicles.
Ahmed Hashim Bahrozyan, CEO of Public Transport Agency and chairperson of the RTA’s Smart and Sustainable Transport Committee said: “RTA plays a crucial role as it is the licensing authority entrusted with the checking, auditing and endorsing the technical, security and safety standards of trials set by contracting parties such as manufacturers, developers and auto dealers. RTA also sets stipulations for roads, areas and speeds governing test-runs of autonomous vehicles.”
He added: “The legislation stipulates that the autonomous vehicle to be tested must be covered by a comprehensive insurance policy against accidents and civil responsibility. The policy must be valid throughout the testing period. It orders manufacturers and other parties concerned with the trial run to comply with the conditions and processes stated by RTA in this regard.”