Grab, which describes itself as Southeast Asia’s leading superapp, is partnering with four prominent autonomous technology companies – Autonomous A2Z, Motional, WeRide and Zelos – to explore the impact and potential role of AVs within Southeast Asia’s unique transportation landscape.
“Autonomous vehicle technology is advancing rapidly, yet its impact on Southeast Asia’s transportation landscape remains largely unexplored,” said said Anthony Tan, group CEO, and co-founder of Grab. “Through these collaborative studies with leading autonomous technology companies, we aim to gain a deeper understanding of how autonomous vehicles can enhance our transportation ecosystem while maintaining the essential role of our drivers and delivery-partners.”
As a key player in the mobility and deliveries space, Grab is committed to the safe adoption of autonomous vehicle technologies in the region; and is planning to collaborate closely with governments and driver associations on pilot studies to facilitate learning and support the development of essential capabilities.
Grab will work with its partners to assess various autonomous technologies for delivery and mobility, such as shuttles, buses, cars and bots. The key focus areas of these studies will be:
• Safety and accident reduction: Validate the benefits of autonomous vehicles in enhancing safety, reducing road accidents, minimising human error and improving traffic management.
• Job creation and workforce transition: Analyse the type, scale and skillsets required for emerging jobs in the autonomous industry, and evaluate opportunities for drivers and delivery-partners to transition and upskill into these roles.
• Commercial sustainability: Assess the operational conditions for diverse autonomous vehicles services to improve connectivity and analyse their cost structure for long-term viability.