NEWS
Innovations in smart mobility take centre stage at Automechanika Riyadh
During the Automechanika Riyadh Academy , James Luxbacher , Chief Business Development Officer at SIXT Saudi Arabia , shared vital insights into the future of smart mobility within Saudi Arabia .
According to the World Bank , while 50 % of the world population lives in cities today , this is expected to rise to 70 % by 2030 . This trend is echoed in Riyadh , with the city intending to double its population by 2030 .
As a result , the Saudi Arabia has invested in autonomous and connected vehicles projects to alleviate the expected burden on the transport system , including NEOM ’ s US $ 100 million investment into Pony . ai to develop , manufacture and deliver autonomous vehicles , an autonomous driving service , and smart vehicle infrastructure across the Saudi Arabia and the Middle East .
Exploring the integration of IoT in smart transportation systems , Luxbacher said :
“ IoT integration in shared mobility enables remote monitoring , predictive maintenance and personalised services for vehicles . It also improves safety , efficiency and user experience in transportation systems and encourages data sharing with the OEMs , government and , ultimately , the customers .”
He outlined the importance of the connection between smart mobility and the Saudi Arabia ’ s municipalities , for example , in the Riyadh , Damman , Jeddah , and Madinah municipal busing projects , as well as the Riyadh metro and smart city infrastructure .
Held under the patronage of the Ministry of Investment at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre , this year ’ s edition of Automechanika Riyadh has set a new benchmark for the automotive industry in the region , uniting over 8,000 global automotive professionals and 340 exhibitors from 26 countries as the trade fair for automotive parts , accessories , equipment , and services in Saudi Arabia .
NEOM is involved in becoming a global hub for innovation , featuring smart transportation solutions . Red Sea Global , meanwhile , is focusing on eco-friendly tourism and transportation infrastructure , while Diriyah and AlUla are preserving cultural heritage while implementing modern transportation systems .
James Luxbacher
Saudia partners with Accenture to launch Beta version of digital platform , Travel Companion
Saudia , the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia , launched its innovative digital platform , the Travel Companion , powered by advanced Artificial Intelligence . This move is part of a two-year plan to revolutionise the travel industry by embracing digital innovations . In collaboration with global professional services firm Accenture , Saudia ’ s Travel Companion is set to change how travellers interact with the airline and redefine the standards of digital travel .
The Travel Companion offers personalised and tailored solutions to meet individual preferences and needs , providing search results from trusted and authenticated sources and uses image-supported responses . The platform is intended to be a comprehensive , one-stop solution that allows users to book concierge services such as hotels , transportation , restaurants , activities , and attractions , eliminating the need to
switch between multiple platforms .
Additionally , it establishes seamless connections with transportation platforms and various train companies , ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted journey .
In the next stages , Saudia will introduce additional features , such as voice command and digital payment solutions . Through an always-on Travel Companion accessible via a telecom e-SIM card enabled by Saudia , users can enjoy global access without relying on other internet providers . Furthermore , users can purchase data packages for additional applications , ensuring continuous access to the platform ’ s services .
The ultimate goal of the Travel Companion is to become the top app for travellers , providing unparalleled travel information . With aspirations to become the go-to platform for various services beyond flight bookings , the Travel Companion will aim to distinguish itself in the airline industry .
His Excellency Engr Ibrahim Al-Omar , Director General of Saudia Group said , “ This platform , resulting from our ongoing collaboration with Accenture , signifies our forwardlooking approach to providing guests with unparalleled convenience and flexibility .
Saudia is the national flag carrier of the Saudi Arabia . Established in 1945 , the company has grown to become one of the Middle East ’ s largest airlines .
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