The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), part of Abu Dhabi’s Department of Municipalities and Transport, has announced a major global breakthrough with the launch of the world’s first modular smart vehicles, unveiled during DRIFTx 2025 as part of the inaugural Abu Dhabi Autonomous Systems Week.
The announcement establishes Abu Dhabi as the first city globally to recognise modular, reconfigurable smart vehicles as a new and independent category of road transport. Developed by NExT, the technology represents a step change in global mobility innovation and regulation.
The vehicles can connect or separate based on operational needs, adapting in real time to passenger demand or specific use cases. This flexibility allows for smoother traffic flow, lower congestion and reduced carbon emissions, creating more efficient and sustainable road networks.
The recognition follows extensive research supported by studies from leading institutions in New York and Abu Dhabi, along with multiple international awards and field trials proving the system’s real-world potential.
ITC is leading the initiative in partnership with Emirates Driving Company, Liftango and Paradigma Innovation Hub to conduct the world’s first pilot of these multi-unit modular smart vehicles on Yas Island. The trial is expected to help shape a new era of connected, intelligent mobility in the capital.
Dr Abdulla Hamad Al Ghfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre, said: “The Integrated Transport Centre continues to reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for innovative mobility technologies through pioneering initiatives that tangibly enhance the transport system’s efficiency and sustainability. The adoption of modular smart vehicles represents a strategic step forward in advancing the Emirate’s vision for a more integrated and intelligent mobility ecosystem.”
Beyond their immediate operational benefits, the modular vehicles also serve as a testing platform for developing smart operating systems and remote-control capabilities. This forms part of ITC’s wider strategy to expand autonomous driving applications across Abu Dhabi in the years ahead.
Antonio Guadagnino, CIO of NExT, said: “We are thrilled to contribute with NExT to a concrete and immediately deployable solution that requires no new infrastructure to drastically reduce traffic congestion and enhance first and last mile services — two critical needs that we strongly believe will define mobility across Gulf countries for the next decade.”
The project strengthens Abu Dhabi’s global leadership in advanced transport innovation, aligning with its vision to build a connected, sustainable and future-ready mobility ecosystem.
Follow us on
