Autonomous vehicles, connected modes of transportation, and energy efficient commuting are among the hot topics at the 2nd International Conference on Future Mobility, which runs on Nov. 14-15, 2016 in Dubai. Building on the momentum and the considerable interest raised by the inaugural conference in 2015, this year's edition takes an even more comprehensive look at the issues and factors that impact personal and collective transport in the world today. The conference, hosted by the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) and organized by Messe Frankfurt Middle East, will also shine the spotlight on driverless and automated transportation systems and discuss the efficacy and feasibility of implementing these solutions across the globe. Held under the patronage of Dr. Rashid Ahmed Bin-Fahad, Minister of State, and Chairman of ESMA Board of Directors, the two-day summit is designed to provide a unique platform for regulators, government authorities, key industry players and thought leaders to discuss the future opportunities, advances and innovations in mobility technology. "The UAE is at the forefront of implementing innovative multi-layered mobility solutions and is currently in the global spotlight given the immense degree of development here," said Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of Messe Frankfurt Middle East. "The 2nd International Conference on Future Mobility serves as a unique interactive platform where regional transport professionals, civic representatives, government officials and transport consultants, can exchange ideas and gain knowledge on global developments and the latest cutting-edge technologies." Abdulla Abdulqader Al Maeeni, Director General of ESMA, said: "Given that the UAE Government has announced that 25 percent of all public transport systems in the country will be smart and automated by 2030, we are set to see a transformation in the way people and goods move around the country. The 2nd International Conference on Future Mobility, with its focus on alternative technologies, automation and connected transport, is especially relevant here." The 2nd International Conference on Future Mobility is supported by the Automobile & Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE). Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the President of the ATCUAE, said: "It is clear that the future model of transportation requires a cooperative approach to ensure sustainable, affordable, accessible, safe and clean mobility." "It took over four years to reach one million plug-in electric vehicle sales globally out of which 43 percent were sold only in 2014. This is a clear indication that the whole world is moving towards electric, hybrid and cleaner vehicles. Today the US leads in the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles and with the right policies I believe that UAE can take the lead in the Middle East." — SG
