Emirates Transport, a transport provider in the UAE, is set to begin pilot testing hydrogen and electric commercial vehicles supplied by Al Ghurair Motors. This initiative is part of a new agreement aimed at promoting environmentally friendly transportation solutions.
The memorandum of understanding (MoU), announced at Gitex Global 2024— the world’s largest tech event—signals a collaborative effort between Emirates Transport and Al Ghurair Motors to explore and encourage the use of alternative-fuel commercial vehicles.
Evaluating Viability and Innovation
This partnership will evaluate the feasibility of these sustainable vehicles and implement pilot projects for their deployment, aiming to foster innovation and position the UAE as a leader in sustainable transportation technologies. Testing hydrogen and electric commercial vehicles is a significant step toward incorporating hydrogen technology into Emirates Transport’s national fleet.
Commitment to Green Fuel Integration
As the UAE’s leading provider of school transport, vehicle rentals, and other public transport services, operating over 32,000 vehicles, Emirates Transport acknowledges that integrating green fuel is vital to its strategy. This initiative supports the UAE’s goal to transition 50 percent of all vehicles on the road to electric by 2050. Hydrogen-powered vehicles are also seen as crucial for reducing transportation emissions, aligning with the UAE’s strategic aim of achieving net zero by 2050.
Pilot Projects for Diverse Clients
The pilot projects will feature hydrogen and electric commercial vehicles, serving Emirates Transport’s clients across business, government, and public sectors. The long-term vision includes gradually integrating more alternative-fuel vehicles into the fleet.
Training and Technical Support
Under the MoU, Al Ghurair Motors, in partnership with the manufacturer, will offer comprehensive technical training to Emirates Transport staff, equipping them with the necessary skills to operate and maintain the hydrogen and electric commercial vehicles.
Infrastructure Readiness
Emirates Transport operates over 46 workshops across the UAE, all of which will be prepared to maintain these vehicles. Mechanics will also receive training to support the integration and expansion of these advanced technologies.
Joint Commitment to Development
The partnership includes a joint commitment to develop the required infrastructure, such as electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and hydrogen fueling technologies, to support the pilot projects, with aspirations for future scalability.
Shared Goals for Sustainability
Dominic Hagerty, chief transport and lease officer at Emirates Transport, remarked that the MoU signifies a new era of collaboration aimed at introducing eco-friendly transport solutions on UAE roads. Oscar Rivoli, chief executive officer of Al Ghurair Motors, emphasized the role of advanced sustainable commercial vehicles in achieving the UAE’s net-zero targets.
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