In an innovative approach to car rentals, Vay is currently trialling a service in Las Vegas that enables vehicles to be delivered remotely by teledrivers situated miles away. This pioneering technology allows customers to summon a vehicle using an iOS app, eliminating the need for traditional car rental logistics.
Customers using the Vay app can simply drop a pin to summon a vehicle which arrives driverless, providing a rental experience optimised for convenience. The vehicles are not operated autonomously; instead, they are handled by trained teledrivers who control the cars from designated stations equipped with steering wheels, pedals, and various controls, using a live video feed. According to Vay, the systems used by the teledrivers meet stringent automotive industry standards.
“Before getting behind the wheel of a real remote-control car, Vay’s drivers are put through its Teledrive Academy,” a Vay spokesperson stated. This training programme is designed to prepare the operators for safely navigating public streets. The safety of the system has also been corroborated by TÜV Süd, an independent testing and certification body, which has verified that the technology meets safety requirements. The company assures that in case of emergency, the vehicle is programmed to come to a safe stop, making the remote operation as secure as having a driver physically present.
The fleet is currently active in Las Vegas, with Vay indicating future plans for expansion into Europe, facilitated by a recent surge in funding and partnerships, including one with the Belgian car-sharing platform Poppy. The potential global expansion of Vay's service aligns with the broader trends in automated vehicle technologies. Emerging competitors in the field, such as the Estonian startup Elmo, are also making strides towards automation with their AI-powered systems, while industry giants like Alphabet's Waymo and Hyundai explore robotaxi concepts with various levels of human involvement.
The trend towards remote driving technology is reflective of a growing industry interest in blending human capabilities with machine efficiency. Vay intends to progressively incorporate more autonomous functions into its operations as safety and legal frameworks evolve.
Additionally, Tesla has hinted at potential developments in remote teleoperation. A recent job listing reveals that the company’s AI division is exploring ways to provide remote access to its upcoming robotaxis, suggesting a vision for a VR-driven approach to teleoperation.
At this time, for those seeking a novel car rental experience with a remote driver, Vay’s service in Las Vegas, currently available through its iOS app, represents a significant transformation in the mobility landscape. Android users interested in the service can opt to join a waiting list for future access.
Source: Noah Wire Services