Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched the trial operation of the world's first electric abra manufactured using 3D printing technology, in collaboration with the private sector.

 

The abra was manufactured by Al Seer Marine Company in Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with several global companies, including Mitsubishi of Japan, which provided the materials used in the manufacturing and printing of the abra, Siemens of Germany, which supervised the programming and calibration of the printer, and Torqeedo of Germany, which supplied the electric motors. 

 

Tasneef Company oversaw the manufacturing process to ensure compliance with safety standards.

 

According to RTA, the abra, which can carry 20 passengers, was designed and built to retain the traditional abra identity. This initiative supports the government's efforts to achieve Dubai's 3D printing strategy. 

 

The kwey objective is to reduce abra manufacturing time by 90%, slash manufacturing costs by 30% and cut operation and maintenance expenses by 30%. Additionally, it supports RTA's environmental sustainability strategy for maritime transport, it added.

 

Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, said: "The trial operation of the electric abra manufactured using 3D printing technology, along with the improvement of traditional abra stations project, is part of RTA’s master plan to enhance the marine transport services, a vital mobility means in Dubai, adding much value to the maritime transport sector."

 

According to him, the newly manufactured abra features numerous technical attributes, including the longest monocoque structure created using 3D printing technology, measuring 11 metres in length and 3.1 metres in width. 

 

It has an electric propulsion system powered by two 10-kilowatt motors and lithium batteries. The abra will be operated at the Sheikh Zayed Road Marine Transport Station on the TR6 line on a trial base, he stated. 

 

"During this operation phase, the performance of the abra will be monitored and compared with the current 20-passenger fibreglass abras," explained Al Tayer.

 

RTA is currently working on a project to upgrade the traditional abra stations in Dubai Creek. 

 

In February 2023, RTA completed the improvement of Bur Dubai Marine Transport Station, and last February, it completed the upgrading of Deira Old Souq Station. 

 

The improvement of the Dubai Old Souq Station and Al Sabkha Station will be completed by August 2025, it added.-TradeArabia News Service