MAKKAH: The Transport General Authority in Makkah Mukarrama, Saudi Arabia is starting the trial of self-driving electric buses for pilgrims in the ongoing Hajj season.
It aims to give innovative modern technologies for a sustainable and environment-friendly transport system.
The initiative is part of the Transport General Authority ‘s efforts to offer various transportation options, making it easier for the pilgrims to travel, SPA reported on Thursday.
The self-driving buses use artificial intelligence, censors, and cameras to drive without human intervention along a specific route. They collect information during movement and analyze it to make the required decisions, aiming to boost passenger experience and ensure safety. Each electric bus has eleven seats, runs for six hours per charge, and can speed up to thirty km/h.
Facilitation for hajj pilgrims
The main objective of the service is to facilitate the transportation of Hajj pilgrims and test the feasibility of using these technologies. It also aims to establish the required requirements for their commercial operation in future.
