Abu Dhabi has launched the Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industry (SAVI) cluster, aiming to drive the global adoption of smart and autonomous vehicles. Positioned as a fully integrated global cluster for the future mobility industry, SAVI will play a crucial role in promoting the growth of advanced manufacturing and industrial activities, as well as the diversification of Abu Dhabi’s economy.
With its headquarters located in Masdar City, the SAVI cluster offers state-of-the-art research and development (R&D) and testing facilities, providing global players with the necessary support to innovate and commercialize smart and autonomous technologies. The cluster brings together the entire value chain of the industry, featuring hardware and software R&D labs, 3D printing and simulation facilities, and small workshops.
Abu Dhabi’s commitment to the future of mobility is reflected in its partnerships with key institutions, including the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), Technology Innovation Institute (TII), Khalifa University, and Hub71. These collaborations aim to drive research, innovation, and knowledge transfer in the smart and autonomous vehicle sector.
Badr Al-Olama, Acting Director General of ADIO, emphasized the importance of leveraging technology for economic and social advancement, stating that the SAVI cluster aligns with Abu Dhabi’s vision of transitioning towards a knowledge-driven economy. The cluster will attract leading regional and global innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, and talent, fostering collaborations that will drive exports and contribute to a zero-emissions future.
MBZUAI President and University Professor, Eric Xing, highlighted the significance of the SAVI cluster in realizing the UAE’s ambition to be an AI research hub. He expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration and mentioned that MBZUAI’s elite faculty are already engaged in research on smart cities, smart and autonomous vehicles, and mobility.
Dr. Ray O. Johnson, CEO of TII, underscored the transformative potential of smart and autonomous vehicles in reshaping the world. He expressed TII’s commitment to pioneering innovation at the intersection of technology and discovery, and emphasized the collaborative efforts of academia, government, and the private sector in revolutionizing the way people move, drive, and connect.
Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice-President of Khalifa University, highlighted the university’s role in shaping the smart mobility landscape and reducing carbon footprint. He mentioned several projects undertaken by Khalifa University, such as the UAE’s first driverless shuttle and the region’s first advanced robotics research facility, which contribute to sustainable transport solutions.
Ahmad Ali Alwan, Deputy CEO of Hub71, emphasized the importance of smart autonomous vehicles in establishing Abu Dhabi as a global economic center. He highlighted the attractive opportunities for startup founders to develop innovative mobility solutions in a city that embraces transformation.
Overall, the launch of the SAVI cluster positions Abu Dhabi as a pioneer in the smart and autonomous vehicle industry. By offering cutting-edge facilities and fostering collaborations, the emirate aims to drive global adoption of these technologies and contribute to the development of a sustainable and connected future.
