Dubai Welcomes World's First Personal Robocar

The world’s first personal self-driving robocar has arrived in Dubai.

Dubai again strengthens its reputation as the city of the future with the introduction of the world's first personal-use, fully autonomous vehicle, the Tensor Robocar. This is not a concept or a spectacular study car, but a truly purchasable vehicle, with the first units expected to be delivered to buyers in the second half of 2026. Behind its development is a California-based artificial intelligence company, which claims that the Tensor Robocar creates a new category in motoring: not merely an electric vehicle, but a “proxy artificial intelligence” robot on the roads.

What does Level 4 autonomy mean?

The Tensor Robocar offers level 4 autonomy. This means the vehicle can travel entirely on its own in pre-determined and approved zones, without human supervision or intervention. Of course, the driver can take control at any time and switch to manual or assisted driving. The system can smoothly and seamlessly transfer control between human and machine, depending on where they are traveling.

According to Tensor, this is not just a new technology, but the beginning of the future of transportation. Dubai, which has already been at the forefront of smart transportation solutions, is now the first in the world to host this groundbreaking vehicle at the Dubai World Congress for Self-Driving Transport held on September 24, organized by the Roads and Transport Authority at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

What is the Robocar really like?

In terms of size, the Tensor Robocar is comparable to a large SUV. It has a wheelbase of 124 inches (nearly 315 cm), a total length of 217.5 inches (552 cm), a height of 78.3 inches (198 cm), and a width of 79.9 inches (203 cm) without mirrors. The interior changes completely when driving autonomously. The steering wheel folds away, the pedals retract, and the driver’s seat becomes a spacious lounge suitable for relaxation. With this solution, the driving experience is redefined: it’s not just about commuting, but comfortable traveling.

Proxy artificial intelligence

The Robocar is not a traditional self-driving car. The vehicle uses "proxy artificial intelligence," which not only follows instructions but is capable of making its own decisions in various traffic scenarios. The system's learning capabilities far exceed classical programmed reactions: it can perceive, predict, and plan for different traffic situations based on real and simulated databases.

Safety has been elevated to a particularly high level: there are more than 100 sensors built into the vehicle, including 37 cameras, 5 lidar (laser scanning systems), and 11 radar, ensuring uncompromised visibility even in the most challenging conditions – whether it be desert lighting conditions, sandstorms, night driving, or heavy rain.

Dual AI system and full system backup

The Robocar runs two artificial intelligence systems in parallel. The first system is responsible for immediate, reflex-like decisions – such as braking in response to a suddenly appearing obstacle. The second system uses a visual language model to interpret more complex, rare traffic situations, such as an extraordinary traffic jam or unexpected road closure.

It's important to note that redundancy is present in all major systems of the vehicle: this applies to sensors, communications, propulsion, power supply, and cooling as well. The essence of redundancy is that if one component fails, another automatically takes over its function – this is especially crucial for a fully autonomous system.

Technological background and partners

Tensor is not working alone: numerous industry-leading partners are involved in the Robocar's technological ecosystem. Nvidia supplies the supercomputer embedded in the car, boasting an 8,000 TOPS (trillion operations per second) performance. The cameras are sourced from Sony, while manufacturing is performed by VinFast. Cloud services are provided by Oracle, and the first robocar insurance model is introduced by Marsh.

What does all this mean for Dubai?

Dubai has already established itself as one of the world’s most innovative cities, but with the arrival of the Tensor Robocar, it elevates its smart transportation strategy to a new level. The city aims to convert 25 percent of its transport systems to autonomous technologies by 2030. The Robocar offers an excellent starting point for this: it symbolizes not just a high-tech vehicle but a new way of thinking about transportation.

The Tensor Robocar not only appeals to technology enthusiasts but also to those seeking comfort, safety, and environmental consciousness in the cars of the future. With its electric drivetrain, energy-efficient operations, and fully automated control, the Robocar fundamentally transforms not just the driving experience but also urban mobility.

Summary

The arrival of the Tensor Robocar is a milestone not only for Dubai but for the whole world. The first personal ownership, level 4 autonomous vehicle is no longer a promise of the future but a tangible reality. Although the first units can only be received by buyers in the second half of 2026, it is already clear that the future of transportation is autonomous, driven by artificial intelligence, and safer than ever before – and all of this originates from Dubai.

(Source: Introduced at the Dubai World Congress for Self-Driving Transport.)