Utilizing AI to Introduce Remote Driving Technology in Middle East and Africa

German teledriving company Vay Technology has joined forces with the United Arab Emirates’ Bayanat to expand the reach of its remotely controlled vehicles. The collaboration involves an agreement to enhance teledriving technology solutions with geospatial data and AI. Their aim is to introduce Vay's teledriving technology successfully in the Middle East, Africa, and select Asia Pacific countries.

Vay has made waves in Las Vegas, starting off by showcasing its technology in Europe as the pioneer in operating on public roads without a human driver. Setting itself apart from self-driving taxis, Vay's vehicles are remotely controlled by humans at a teledrive center once a customer orders a ride through an app. The remote teledriver guides the vehicle to the desired location using traditional controls via a cellular network connection. Upon arrival, the customer takes over the wheel until reaching their destination, at which point the remote teledriver resumes control.

The partnership will leverage Bayanat's AI-powered platform, GIQ, to support Vay's teledrivers in making better decisions, improving situational awareness, and enhancing operational efficiency. Additionally, the companies will jointly establish a research and development division focused on advancing safe autonomous technology, utilizing Bayanat's operational capabilities, data, and AI expertise.

Bayanat, soon to be renamed Space42, is a key player in the AI sector in the Middle East, emphasizing the importance of partnerships that drive innovation in teledriving and advanced mobility. Through collaborating with Vay, they aim to overcome teledriving challenges, spearhead industry innovation, and provide advanced and scalable mobility solutions to enhance transportation efficiency and promote safer and more sustainable urban mobility experiences.

This collaboration marks Bayanat's second significant partnership after teaming up with the U.K.'s Oxa to enhance autonomous vehicles' capabilities using geospatial analytics tools. Other partnerships with companies like China's WeRide have also contributed to their commitment to advancing the autonomous vehicle industry.

Vay's co-founder, Thomas von der Ohe, expressed excitement about the partnership, highlighting the possibilities it brings to develop the concept of "remote-operated, assisted autonomy." Leveraging Bayanat's AI platform promises to enhance cost-effectiveness for fleet operations and expand the applications of teledriving beyond current use cases, providing an improved experience for teledrivers, users, and partners.

Vay recently solidified an agreement with Verizon to utilize their 5G network for operations in Las Vegas. This strategic move aligns with Vay's commitment to innovation and advancing teledriving technology.