ATRC’s VentureOne Launches SteerAI

The commercialization arm of the UAE’s Advanced Technology Research Council's (ATRC), VentureOne, has launched SteerAI, a technology venture that converts standard industrial vehicles into autonomous units using artificial intelligence (AI) mobility systems. 

Initially targeting the logistics and defense sectors, SteerAI integrates a hardware kit, software stack, and fleet management system, enabling autonomous ground vehicles to conduct complex missions efficiently, saving time and resources while enhancing workforce safety. 

Developed by experts at the Technology Innovation Institute (TII), the applied research arm of ATRC, SteerAI’s technology allows vehicles to navigate consistently and accurately between set points, with minimal downtime. The software stack works with corresponding sensors, enabling vehicles to respond quickly to hazards, maneuver around obstacles, and operate in challenging environments and unmapped areas. 

In addition to facilitating autonomous mobility, SteerAI’s software supports remote fleet management, offering mission planning, monitoring, and data-driven analytics for optimal vehicle deployment and performance. 

SteerAI is the second venture launched by VentureOne, following the debut of AI71 – which utilizes TII's Falcon generative AI models to deliver business solutions – in November 2023. 

In a statement, HE Faisal Al Bannai, advisor to the UAE President and secretary general of ATRC, said, “The launch of SteerAI is a significant milestone in solidifying the UAE’s leadership in autonomous technology. At ATRC, our vision is to continuously push the boundaries of innovation, and SteerAI exemplifies how we are turning groundbreaking research into real-world solutions that drive tangible impact.” 

Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII, said, “We have not simply created an autonomous vehicle — we have created an autonomous vehicle’s ‘brain.’” She added, "The advanced navigation algorithms work with cutting-edge sensors as part of an efficient, modular system that can work on any vehicle, and that has the potential to transform the way we move.”

SteerAI converts standard industrial vehicles into autonomous units using AI mobility units. Courtesy of VentureOne.

In an interview with Inc. Arabia, Reda Nidhakou, the acting CEO of VentureOne, said, “The future of autonomous vehicles in logistics and defense is exciting, and SteerAI is poised to play a key role in this evolution.” He stressed that, as Steer AI rolls out its technology, with an emphasis on performance and safety, it will help clients scale up to larger deployments like fully unmanned operations at ports or docks, allowing them to unlock the full benefits of autonomy.

Nidhakou noted that SteerAI’s advantages derive from its modularity and flexibility, among other things. “The future will involve ecosystems of autonomous vehicles — ground, air, and sea — working seamlessly together. SteerAI’s platform-agnostic and modular solutions are designed to support this integrated approach, enabling a coordinated operation of diverse vehicle types. While we are starting with ground platforms, we are also advanced in marine platforms, where we are working to bring the same level of autonomous capability. Last but not least, system security and data protection will become even more critical. SteerAI will continue prioritizing robust security to protect data and maintain trust, ensuring these advanced systems remain safe and secure.”

Nidhakou also noted that SteerAI boosts operational efficiency, consistency, and safety. “We also drive operations efficiency by optimizing routes in real-time and allowing a higher utilization of the fleet," he said. "Another key aspect we tackle is operations consistency and continuity. Interruptions from limited operating hours, errors, and changing environmental conditions all disrupt operations. SteerAI automates and streamlines processes to ensure smoother, more consistent operations.”

Critically, it can help reduce labor costs and redirect labor to other, value-added tasks, he told us. Other challenges that the technology helps to address include dealing with demand fluctuations and scalability limitations. “Expanding operations often means hiring and training more personnel and investing heavily in resources and process adjustments," Nidhakou explained. "SteerAI allows teams to scale operations efficiently with minimum extra manpower.”

Finally, he stressed how the technology prioritizes personnel safety in both logistics and defense. “Safety can’t be ignored," Nidhakou pointed out. "Physically demanding tasks put ground personnel at risk. SteerAI aims to minimize human involvement in dangerous tasks and risky environments, improving safety and reducing the risk of accidents. In defense, personnel safety comes first. Operating in high-risk environments puts military personnel in significant danger. Autonomous vehicles can perform critical tasks such as surveillance, supply delivery, and reconnaissance in combat zones, reducing the risk to human soldiers.”

Other challenges that SteerAI addresses include navigating difficult or hostile terrain as well as coordinating logistics for troops, equipment, and supplies in conflict zones. "We also excel in operating in complex environments, enabling autonomy in different contexts where other systems might struggle," Nidhakou added. "A few unique features we’re proud of include vehicle platooning and formation capabilities, along with a robust fleet management system that supports diverse mission planning and monitoring requirements.”

SteerAI autonomy kits will power A2RL's Super Formula cars at the league's events in 2025. Courtesy of VentureOne.

SteerAI has also partnered with the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) to provide autonomy kits for its AI-driven Super Formula racecars for the league's events in 2025. The collaboration follows a testing campaign in Italy, where A2RL used the SteerAI kit alongside Japanese Super Formula driver Juju Noda. The kit was tested again at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan during a “Man vs. Machine” demonstration, featuring former F1 driver Daniil Kvyat as part of Suzuka’s season finale on November 10.

SteerAI’s autonomy kit aims to improve the performance and reliability of A2RL racecars on complex circuits. The kit includes a set of perception sensors that provide a 360-degree view and spatial data to support navigation and situational awareness. The software also includes tools for navigation, perception, and localization, which teams can use to develop their own racing algorithms.