Experiencing the Future: A Ride in Dubai’s Autonomous Robotaxi

A Unique Journey Begins

Recently, I had the chance to take a taxi ride in Jumeirah that was nothing short of extraordinary. As I settled into the plush interior of Baidu’s Apollo Go RT6, a fully autonomous Robotaxi, I felt a mix of excitement and curiosity. This experience was part of the pilot phase during the Dubai World Congress for Self-Driving Transport, where I embarked on a six-kilometer test drive through some of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods.

Entering the Robotaxi

Stepping into the Robotaxi was akin to unlocking a new level in a video game. Instead of a conventional door handle, entry required a numeric password—specifically, the last four digits of my phone number. After inputting the code, the door slid open automatically, welcoming me aboard. Inside, I pressed a button next to my seat to close the door, which clicked shut with precision. The ambiance felt more like that of a futuristic spacecraft than a typical taxi, creating an atmosphere that was both inviting and intriguing.

Comfort and Technology Combined

The cabin of the RT6 was impressively spacious and comfortable. The seats were fully adjustable, complete with heating controls. To my surprise, I discovered a massage function on the control screen, offering three modes: Wave, Butterfly, and Catwalk. Each mode provided a soothing experience, almost as if the vehicle was encouraging me to relax and enjoy the ride.

The Thrill of Autonomous Driving

As the journey began, I felt a rush of excitement when the steering wheel started to turn on its own. The Robotaxi smoothly changed lanes and executed a flawless U-turn, all while utilizing its advanced sensors and cameras to analyze the road ahead. My heart raced as it overtook a van, but the maneuver was executed effortlessly. The vehicle came to a perfect stop at zebra crossings, showcasing a level of precision that was both impressive and reassuring.

Safety First

During this pilot phase, a safety officer was on board to monitor the journey. After a brief conversation, he reassured me, saying, “Just enjoy the ride. There’s nothing to fear.” Taking his advice, I closed my eyes for a moment, allowing the massage feature to work its magic while I explored the digital interface and examined the thoughtfully designed cup holders.

Cutting-Edge Technology

The RT6 stands out as the world’s first purpose-built model for Level 4 autonomous driving. Its high-frame-rate vision and LiDAR technology ensure rapid responses, while an array of cameras and sensors keep track of everything from lane markings to pedestrians. This combination of technology and engineering makes for a truly remarkable driving experience.

A New Perspective on Dubai

By the end of the ride, I found myself taking selfies and grinning like a child who had just discovered something magical. The roads of Dubai had never felt so exciting, safe, and full of potential. This was just the pilot phase; by early next year, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai plans to make Robotaxis available to the public.

Looking Ahead

The RTA and Baidu’s Apollo Go have signed an agreement to deploy 1,000 autonomous vehicles throughout Dubai, with approximately 50 currently undergoing trial runs. As I stepped out of the RT6, one thought lingered in my mind: I had just experienced a glimpse into the future, and it felt absolutely incredible.