Latest news with #cleantransportation
Arabian Business
03-06-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Air taxis in Saudi Arabia: Abdul Latif Jameel and Joby Aviation sign $1bn future transport deal
A business group in Saudi Arabia will partner with a futuristic US aviation firm on a $1bn deal to bring flying taxis to the Kingdom. The groundbreaking electric aircraft partnership will see Abdul Latif Jameel team up with Joby Aviation to explore a distribution agreement for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The potential deal, valued at approximately $1bn, could deliver up to 200 aircraft in the coming years, marking a pivotal step in Saudi Arabia's clean transportation ambitions. Flying taxis in Saudi Arabia The announcement builds on the deepening economic ties between the United States and Saudi Arabia, with both nations investing heavily in next-generation, sustainable infrastructure. Joby Aviation, known for its piloted, all-electric aircraft designed to carry four passengers at speeds of up to 200 mph, represents the forefront of urban air mobility. With zero operating emissions and significantly reduced noise levels, Joby's aircraft are poised to redefine short-distance travel. JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby Aviation, said: 'This collaboration is about bringing America's leadership in electric air mobility to the world. Together with Abdul Latif Jameel, we're not just imagining a cleaner, safer, more efficient future—we're building it. And there is no better partner to help unlock the extraordinary opportunity for air travel in the region.' Hassan Jameel, Vice Chairman, Saudi Arabia, Abdul Latif Jameel, said: 'Saudi Arabia is transitioning toward a new era of mobility – one that is on-demand, shared, connected, and sustainable. eVTOL is an exciting and important component of this. 'We are looking forward to collaborating with Joby to support the transformation of the Kingdom's mobility sector. This collaboration also comes as Abdul Latif Jameel Motors marks 70 years of distributing Toyota in Saudi Arabia — a strategic investor in Joby.' Joby's collaboration with Abdul Latif Jameel will initially focus on Saudi Arabia, where Abdul Latif Jameel has an extensive presence, network and deep operational experience. The two businesses will work together to explore distribution and sales collaborations, the launch of local air taxi services, including the establishment of aftermarket services such as MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul), and pilot training. Joby's piloted, all-electric aircraft is designed to carry four passengers at speeds of up to 200mph, offering high-speed mobility with a fraction of the noise produced by helicopters and zero operating emissions. Joby Aviation aims to launch its first commercial passenger flights in Dubai by 2026, with expansion into Saudi Arabia envisioned soon after. The deal also reflects Abdul Latif Jameel's broader investment strategy in future mobility. The Jameel family previously invested in Joby's Series C funding round, led by Toyota Motor Corporation in 2020.
Malay Mail
29-05-2025
- Automotive
- Malay Mail
VinFast Finds Strategic Opening in Gulf's EV Shift
The Gulf nations offer more than growth potential. For VinFast, it presents a well-timed opportunity to expand into a region that's actively investing in clean transportation while remaining open to new players. VinFast officially launched in the Middle East in October 2024. HANOI, VIETNAM - Media OutReach Newswire - 29 May 2025 - Gulf countries are reinventing themselves, quickly. They are now investing in cleaner energy, modern infrastructure, and long-term economic resilience. National strategies like UAE Vision 2031 and Qatar Vision 2030 are pushing change across energy, transport, and vehicles can play an important part in this shift. They support environmental goals and open up new industrial opportunities, helping to build new value chains and attract long-term investment. What's more, people in the region are already warming up to the UAE, for example, 63% of residents want EVs to be their main way of getting around by 2025, according to a YouGov survey[1]. Around 73% believe that by 2028, charging stations will be available every few kilometers. These findings show that consumers are ready for change and already have expectations for the infrastructure. They're looking for reliable options, and they're open to new brands that can deliver quality and long-term are playing an active role in speeding up this transition, in part to prepare for a post-oil future. Countries across the Gulf are investing in EV strategies as part of their broader economic diversification plans. Qatar's EV Strategy 2021 is already showing results. Over 70% of its public buses are now electric[2], and its policies promote local assembly, training, and infrastructure partnerships. Oman is also making progress, with initiatives like Net Zero 3 aimed at cutting emissions and reducing fuel use. The country plans to have at least 22,000 EVs on the road by 2040 and to phase out fossil fuel vehicles by 2050[3].From a bird's eye view, these policies reflect broader national and regional goals to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Meeting those goals requires partners who can contribute to more than just car sales, leading governments to look for companies that will help build service networks, support local jobs, and stay for the long call for growth in untapped markets is proving irresistible to international brands. One of them is VinFast, the best-selling car brand in Vietnam. It is stepping into this space with the right offer at the right time, bringing more than ambition. The company has already opened a dealership in downtown Dubai and launched a showroom in Muscat. Its models are smart, practical, and priced to attract high-paying Gulf's EV market is still developing, which gives early entrants like VinFast a real advantage. There's space to build customer trust, establish brand recognition, and help shape the expectations of a new generation of EV buyers. By coming in early and backing up its presence with reliable service and local engagement, VinFast can stand out in a space that is filling up VinFast, a global brand that has established a presence in more than a dozen countries, the Gulf nations and the broader Middle East region are not merely another stop on the map. They represent a strategic move that aligns with both what the company offers and what the region needs. Demand is rising. Policies are in place. And the door is wide #VinFast The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Times of Oman
11-05-2025
- Automotive
- Times of Oman
Adani Group deploys India's first hydrogen-powered truck for mining logistics
Raipur: Adani Enterprises, the flagship company of the Adani Group, flagged off what it claimed to be India's first hydrogen fuel cell truck to promote cleaner transportation. As per a statement from the Adani Group, these hydrogen-powered trucks will gradually replace diesel vehicles used in the company's logistics operations. In collaboration with an Indian and international energy technology firm and a major auto manufacturer, Adani Group is developing hydrogen fuel cell battery-operated trucks for cargo transport. Each truck, equipped with "smart technology" and three hydrogen tanks, can carry up to 40 tonnes of cargo over a 200-kilometer range, the statement noted. On Saturday, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai flagged off the first truck in Raipur. It will be used to transport coal from the Gare Pelma III Block to the state's power plant. "The launch of India's first hydrogen-powered truck in Chhattisgarh reflects the state's commitment to sustainability. Such initiatives will significantly reduce our carbon footprint and set a new standard for industry. Chhattisgarh is not only at the forefront in meeting the country's electricity demands but also leads by example in adopting sustainable practices," said Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai. The state-owned Chhattisgarh State Power Generation Company Limited has appointed Adani Enterprises as the mine developer and operator for the Gare Pelma III block through a competitive bidding process. "The initiative for hydrogen-powered trucks is a significant step towards Adani Group's commitment to decarbonization and responsible mining. We are creating model mines with minimal environmental impact by incorporating autonomous dozer push technologies, solar power, digital initiatives, and tree transplanters to relocate trees. We aim to ensure affordable and reliable electricity for all while pioneering new standards in sustainable mining practices," said Vinay Prakash, CEO - Natural Resources and Director, Adani Enterprises. The project is a joint effort between Adani Natural Resources (ANR) and Adani New Industries Limited (ANIL), both part of Adani Enterprises. Adani Natural Resources (ANR) will source hydrogen cells from Adani New Industries, which also manufactures green hydrogen, wind turbines, solar modules, and batteries. Hydrogen, the most abundant element, produces no harmful emissions. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles match diesel trucks in range and load capacity but emit only water vapour and warm air, with minimal noise. Since mining mainly uses diesel-powered machinery, switching to cleaner fuels will reduce emissions and noise. It will also help lower India's crude oil imports and carbon footprint.
