SingAuto rolls into UAE with self-driving trucks and EV District in Abu Dhabi

SingAuto, a leading innovator in the logistics and transportation sector, has announced plans to develop the “world’s largest commercial electric vehicle (EV) industrial district” in Abu Dhabi.

The Singapore-based company said this initiative underscores its strategic vision to become a frontrunner in sustainable logistics while supporting the UAE’s ambitious goals for clean energy and sustainable transport systems.

The project has received preliminary approval, with construction slated to begin following final regulatory clearance, reported a local UAE daily. The proposed industrial district is set to bolster the UAE’s position as a global hub for sustainable transportation technologies.

Is the future of logistics autonomous?

During the announcement, SingAuto introduced its latest innovation, the SingAuto S1 – the world’s first fully autonomous, intelligent refrigerated vehicle designed for cold chain logistics.

The vehicle integrates advanced autonomous driving technology with a high-tech cold chain logistics system, featuring an AI-powered digital platform, multi-temperature control, independent suspension, and a sophisticated cloud-based fleet management system.

Key specifications of the SingAuto S1 include:

• Driving range: 400 kilometres
• Battery capacity: 128 kWh
• Storage capacity: 18 cubic meters
• Charging Time: 20 per cent to 80 per cent in approximately 40 minutes

Having already launched the S1 in China, SingAuto now shifts its focus to the UAE, attracted by the country’s robust commitment to sustainability and innovation, said Chris Chen, SingAuto’s global CEO and co-founder.

The unveiling event in Abu Dhabi, attended by industry leaders and potential partners, showcased SingAuto’s cutting-edge technologies and comprehensive solutions in the logistics sector.

Chen highlighted the company’s strategic direction and commitment to innovation and sustainability and the compatibility with the UAE’s vision. “Abu Dhabi is not just the economic and innovation hub of the Middle East; it is at the forefront of the transition towards clean energy and high-tech industries. Our focus on sustainability and innovation aligns perfectly with the UAE’s vision of 44 per cent clean energy by 2050,” stated Chen.

“We aim to revolutionise the logistics industry through advanced technologies and global partnerships, ensuring long-term success for our customers and a more sustainable future,” he added.

Smart transportation solutions

The UAE has become a hotspot for innovative transportation solutions, including autonomous vehicles and smart mobility projects. Abu Dhabi’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industry (SAVI) cluster, launched with a substantial Dhs120bn($32.7bn) investment, is dedicated to fostering advancements in this sector.

Adding to the momentum, UAE-based AI firm Zero Gravity is partnering with China’s Nanjing Golden Dragon Bus to establish a Dhs300m facility for manufacturing long-range electric buses and vehicles in Abu Dhabi.

US-based Aptera Motors is also entering the UAE market with its solar-powered Etihad Edition model.

Read: Abu Dhabi launches Smart and Autonomous Vehicles Industries (SAVI) cluster

Sustainable logistics

SingAuto’s initiative to build the world’s largest commercial EV industrial district marks a significant step towards a sustainable, innovative, and efficient logistics landscape for the region.

This move not only aligns with the UAE’s clean energy goals but also solidifies Abu Dhabi’s role as a major player in the global high-tech vehicle industry.