Transforming Mobility in MENA: Pioneering Sustainable Solutions for a Greener Future
As society grows increasingly aware of climate change impacts, urban areas worldwide are exploring alternative means to energize their cities. The surge in population, along with resource demands, compels governments to pursue smarter, greener, and more sustainable solutions for their communities.
The emergence of new technologies has accelerated this transformation, enhancing discussions about strategies to conserve time, lower expenses, and optimize energy usage to fuel future cities. Driven by the Internet of Things (IoT), the potential for developing smart, eco-conscious cities remains largely unexplored.
Nations in the Middle East and Africa are recognizing the advantages of smart cities and their overall contributions to society. From investments in innovative mobility options to renewable energy dialogues, these regions are formulating plans for an environmentally friendly future. For example, in 2018, South Africa secured over $53 billion into renewable energy initiatives, while other countries on the continent heightened their investments to $7.4 billion.
Similarly, the Middle East has adopted a comparable strategy, with the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia launching their Vision 2021 and Vision 2030 National Plans to explore alternatives to fossil fuels and diversify their energy portfolios. These initiatives also include projects like NEOM, an eco-friendly ecosystem designed for living and working.
As the foundation for these green environments begins to take shape globally, mobility—particularly the deployment of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in urban settings—remains a crucial component. Although still developing, UAVs can solve various issues faced by industries dealing with pollution, congestion, and traffic safety. These eco-friendly aerial vehicles hold the potential to harness renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, or hydro-power to support the air travel of tomorrow.
Modern unmanned vehicles boast extended operational times and reduced maintenance requirements compared to earlier models. Their improved technology allows deployment across diverse terrains, leading to myriad applications.
Advancements in propulsion and navigation technologies are facilitating the practical use of UAVs. In parts of Africa, for instance, UAVs have been enlisted to deliver blood, vaccines, and vital medical supplies to remote regions in urgent need of care.
In the UAE, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has established a regulatory framework for urban air mobility (UAM), ensuring the safe, secure, and efficient operation of flights near populated areas. These regulations position the UAE as the first country globally to manage the comprehensive UAV ecosystem from take-off to landing.
In light of this, the Bell team has been innovating technology that provides effective, safe, and eco-friendly methods for transporting people, goods, and information. Building on 85 years of aerospace innovation, Bell has introduced the Autonomous Pod Transport (APT), an autonomous UAV tailored for a multitude of missions, including package delivery, essential medical transport, and disaster relief.
The APT offers the logistics sector a low-emission alternative for last-mile and hard-to-reach deliveries, assisting in the decarbonization of the supply chain. The APT serves third-party logistics firms that emitted 13.8 million metric tons of CO2 while delivering 5.1 billion packages by land or air, according to a 2019 report.
Moreover, the APT enhances energy efficiency through its unique tailsitter architecture, accommodating heavier payloads up to 110 lbs (50 kgs), achieving speeds of up to 90 knots (167 km/h), and covering distances of up to 35 miles (56 km). This innovation elevates mission capability across the entire supply chain.
In its ongoing pursuit of enhancing traditional rotorcraft flight, Bell is even investigating electrically powered technologies that promise reduced fuel consumption and minimized noise pollution. Electrically Distributed Anti-Torque (EDAT), an ambitious initiative spearheaded by Light Commercial Aircraft Program Manager Eric Sinusas, features four small fans arranged in an offset two-by-two configuration within a tail rotor shroud.
Each rotor comprises four blades, powered by four distinct motors, with electricity generated by turbine engines. By replacing the standard tail rotor, EDAT offers stabilization and steering in a more environmentally sustainable manner, benefitting pilots, passengers, and communities alike.
Through its technological breakthroughs, Bell is paving the way for a greener future. The potential applications of these technologies will bolster and promote eco-friendly initiatives around the globe.
