Abu Dhabi-based Miral Asset Management has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with NASA Space Act Company SkyTran to launch the study and deployment of a personal rapid system (PRT) of the same name.
With tests to be undertaken on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, the PRT will be first introduced in the Middle East.
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SkyTran’s computer-controlled, jet-like vehicles use the latest SkyTran magnetic levitation (STML) technology instead of wheels to transport two passengers.
Miral’s CEO Mohamed Abdulla Al Zaabi said: "Innovation remains at the heart of what we do on Yas Island. While we continue to build world-class destinations and expand Yas Island, it is imperative that we are able to implement an urban transportation solution, which is not only energy efficient but also adds another level of excitement to our visitors’ experiences.
"With SkyTran, we have a partner who not only shares our vision for innovation in Abu Dhabi, but are developing a service which will transform the Yas Island experience, and grow our appeal to the millions of residents and tourists who visit us from the UAE and across the world."
The high-speed, low-cost, elevated PRT system is developed by NASA Ames Research Centre in California. It will see cars moving above traffic along specially built raised tracks from one destination to another and will offer safe, on-time, and energy-efficient travelling across the island.
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By GlobalDataWith the growth of tourism in Yas Island, SkyTran’s new design will facilitate expansion of its network, where more tracks can be deployed and more vehicles can be added to handle rising demand.
The use of a computer network helps vehicles travel at optimum speeds and spacing in a safe and efficient manner, depending on passenger demand.
Currently, Yas Island welcomes over 25 million visitors every year, with the number expected to rise to more than 30 million in 2018.
Image: SkyTran Vehicle. Photo: courtesy of Miral/SkyTran
