Grab, the Singapore-based superapp, has on Monday announced the signing of new memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with four prominent autonomous technology companies: Autonomous A2Z, Motional, WeRide and Zelos.

These partnerships aim to explore the impact and potential role of autonomous vehicles (AVs) within Southeast Asia’s unique transportation landscape, Grab said in a statement.

As a key player in the mobility and deliveries space, Grab said the firm is committed to the safe adoption of autonomous vehicle technologies in the region.

The company will collaborate closely with governments and driver associations on pilot studies to facilitate learning and support the development of essential capabilities.

As part of the MoUs, Grab will assess various autonomous technologies for delivery and mobility, such as shuttles, buses, cars and bots.

The key focus areas of these studies are safety and accident reduction; job creation and workforce transition; commercial sustainability.

The firm will validate the benefits of autonomous vehicles in enhancing safety, reducing road accidents, minimizing human error and improving traffic management.

It will also analyze the type, scale and skillsets required for emerging jobs in the autonomous industry, and evaluate opportunities for drivers and delivery-partners to transition and upskill into these roles.

It will also assess the operational conditions for diverse autonomous vehicles services to improve connectivity and analyze their cost structure for long-term viability.

“Autonomous vehicle technology is advancing rapidly, yet its impact on Southeast Asia’s transportation landscape remains largely unexplored,

“Through these collaborative studies with leading autonomous technology companies, we aim to gain a deeper understanding of how autonomous vehicles can enhance our transportation ecosystem while maintaining the essential role of our drivers and delivery-partners,” said Anthony Tan, Group Chief Executive Officer, and Co-Founder of Grab.

Grab’s revenue grows 19 percent on year to $2.8 billion in 2024