Self-driving shuttles are expected to make their debut on the roads of Punggol, Singapore by early 2026.
The rollout of Ai.R is part of Grab’s ongoing efforts to explore the feasibility of AVs in Singapore and provide insights into how AVs can effectively bridge the gaps in transportation services and enhance urban mobility across the region.
(Read more: Why is Grab exploring autonomous vehicles?)
Ai.R stands for Autonomously Intelligent Rides and was coined to represent a vision of mobility that’s effortless and seamless, like smoothly gliding through the city.
The Ai.R self-driving shuttles were developed by WeRide, a global AV technology leader.
Punggol was chosen for the AV shuttle service because it has well-established travel patterns. The neighbourhood’s road infrastructure is also mature, and regular feedback from residents has helped determine the best routes for the AV shuttle service.
The goal? To make it even more convenient to get to key amenities such as shopping centres and transport hubs like the bus interchange and Punggol Coast MRT station.
Click on the Shuttle BETA pop-up.
Check out shuttle routes, timings, and seat availability before heading to your chosen pickup point.
View the live location of the shuttle on the map and through Grab’s in-vehicle camera feature.
If it’s your first time riding an AV, acknowledge the AV Safety & Terms before boarding.
Scan the QR code in the vehicle to register your ride.
All passengers have to put on their seatbelts before the journey begins. During the journey, passengers can get a view of what the vehicle’s sensors detect and its planned manoeuvre via the in-vehicle screen.
During the initial phase, a trained safety operator will be present in the driver’s seat to take control if needed.
(Read more: Here’s why AVs will create opportunities for Southeast Asia’s workforce)
Safety remains the core of everything Grab does and efforts have been made to ensure that the autonomous shuttles are ready to be on the road.
(Read more: Just how safe are autonomous vehicles?)
Before the AVs hit the road, they undergo extensive training to navigate real world conditions in Punggol. Along with a trained engineer and safety operator, the vehicles learn every detail along the assigned route, including traffic lights, zebra crossings, speed limits and more.
This rollout in Punggol is an exciting opportunity for Grab and Singapore to explore how self-driving shuttles can improve daily commutes while addressing the needs of residents in growing urban areas.
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GrabFood delivery-partner, Thailand
GrabFood delivery-partner, Thailand
COVID-19 has dealt an unprecedented blow to the tourism industry, affecting the livelihoods of millions of workers. One of them was Komsan, an assistant chef in a luxury hotel based in the Srinakarin area.
As the number of tourists at the hotel plunged, he decided to sign up as a GrabFood delivery-partner to earn an alternative income. Soon after, the hotel ceased operations.
Komsan has viewed this change through an optimistic lens, calling it the perfect opportunity for him to embark on a fresh journey after his previous job. Aside from GrabFood deliveries, he now also picks up GrabExpress jobs. It can get tiring, having to shuttle between different locations, but Komsan finds it exciting. And mostly, he’s glad to get his income back on track.