Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, has reviewed two models of the Sky Pods, a mobility system being tested by the Roads and Transport Authority, RTA, in conjunction with Skyway Greentech Co, according to a report in WAM. The Sky Pods form part of the RTA’s initiatives aimed at addressing the future of Dubai’s mobility needs.
Al Maktoum inspected the Sky Pods on the sidelines of the World Government Summit in the presence of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Dubai Future Foundation.
WAM reported that Sheikh Mohammed attended a briefing by Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA about the Sky Pod models. The system occupies considerably less area than conventional systems of the same capacity. It is also characterised by higher power efficiency as it uses five times less power than electric vehicles.
Al Tayer said, “The first model of the Sky Pods is the Unibike; which is characterised by its small size and lightweight. It moves on steel wheels on a hanging railway. It combines the features of a high-performance electric vehicle and sports and recreational features. It is fitted with electric systems for driving the pod. It can be fitted with a power generator such as the Bicycle Dynamo, and as such it can be driven by the body mass of passengers on board. It can accommodate two riders and travel at a speed of up to 150 km/h.
“The second model of the Sky Pods is the Unicar. It is designed for long-haul journeys. It features a design compatible with the urban setting and international standards of Dubai. These ultra-modern innovative systems have the potential of enhancing smooth mobility through the construction of an elevated network connecting high-rise buildings. Each pod has a capacity of four to six seated riders and can travel at a speed of 150 km/h.”
“The Sky Pods initiative is part of RTA’s efforts to provide autonomous transport, one of the key aims of the Dubai Autonomous Transportation Strategy aimed at converting 25 per cent of total journeys in Dubai into autonomous journeys on various transit means by 2030. It is also part of RTA’s efforts to enhance the integration of public transit means, and offer solutions for short journeys (first and last mile) enabling public transport users to reach their final destinations,” concluded Al Tayer.
