German teledriving company Vay Technology has joined forces with the United Arab Emirates’ Bayanat to enhance its remotely controlled vehicle operations. The two companies have signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at advancing teledriving technology solutions utilizing geospatial data and artificial intelligence (AI). This collaboration seeks to successfully implement Vay’s innovative teledriving technology across the Middle East, Africa, and select Asia-Pacific countries.
Currently operational in Las Vegas, Vay has established itself as a leader in teledriving, having been the first European company to conduct public road operations without a human driver onboard. Unlike traditional self-driving taxis, Vay’s service employs remote human operators who control the vehicle using standard driving controls, such as a steering wheel and pedals. Once the vehicle reaches its destination, the passenger takes over driving, after which the remote driver resumes control.
Through this partnership, Vay will leverage insights from Bayanat’s AI-enabled platform, GIQ, to enhance decision-making, situational awareness, and efficiency for its teledrivers. Additionally, the companies plan to establish a joint research and development unit focused on advancing next-generation autonomous technologies by tapping into Bayanat’s operational infrastructure and AI capabilities.
Bayanat’s involvement follows its planned merger with Al Yah Satellite Communications, which will create a new entity, Space42, aimed at leading AI initiatives in the Middle East. “Bayanat, soon to be Space42, remains committed to fostering key partnerships that advance disruptive industries such as teledriving and advanced mobility,” stated Hasan Al Hosani, Bayanat’s managing director. He emphasized the collaboration’s potential to innovate within the teledriving sector and improve urban mobility experiences.
Vay co-founder Thomas von der Ohe expressed optimism about the partnership, stating that it will further develop the concept of “remote-operated, assisted autonomy,” enhancing cost-effectiveness for fleet operations. This collaboration builds on Bayanat’s previous partnerships, including a recent alliance with the U.K.’s Oxa to integrate geospatial analytics tools into autonomous vehicles, as well as a partnership with China’s WeRide focused on self-driving taxis.
Last week, Vay confirmed a deal with Verizon to utilize its 5G network for operations in Las Vegas, marking another step in its commitment to advancing the teledriving industry.
