noon.com, the region’s leading digital marketplace, is proud to announce the launch of its driverless vehicles initiative, autoNOONomous. The vehicles are now operating in Downtown Dubai, illustrating noon’s commitment to driving tech innovation across the region.

Overview

Autonoonomous vehicles are now live in Downtown Dubai. The two vehicles will drive along two routes – one along Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain, and another around Burj Park. The vehicles can be stopped by customers wishing to purchase items from the vehicles (or take a selfie).

There is a nownow vehicle, based on noon’s on-demand app, and a noon Daily vehicle, inspired by noon’s digital grocery offering.

How does the technology work?

These vehicles are capable of level four autonomous driving, which means they can drive along a predefined route completely on their own. They use sensors and artificial intelligence to detect static and dynamic objects and accordingly start, move, and stop.

How can people purchase?

Passersby can stop the vehicles by waving at the vehicle or touching the touchscreen. Once stopped, customers can choose the item(s) they wish to purchase and pay with a credit or debit card and collect from the collection latch. Autonoonomous vehicles also accept wireless forms of payment such as Apple Pay.

Safety info:

While each vehicle is autonomous, a safety buddy will be around at all times to offer an additional level of safety. The safety buddy will also ensure that the touchscreen and any touch points such as the collection latch are thoroughly sanitized between uses.

What is available?

Both the vehicles are refrigerated keeping all stock they carry cool. Each vehicle stocks a variety of on-the-go F&B essentials such as water, soft drinks, juices, snacks, and an all-important sanitizer pack.

Other information:

1. Vehicles travel at a walking pace of max. 3km/hr
2. Working hours – 9 am to 12:30 am
3. Vehicles have been approved by RTA