Data Collection for Future Robotaxi Testing Begins in Almaty

In Almaty, data collection has commenced for the creation of a high-precision digital map of the city, essential for testing autonomous vehicles. Specially equipped vehicles from Yandex Qazaqstan are recording road markings, traffic lights, road signs, and other infrastructure elements.

Cameras, lidars, and other sensors are being used to gather data. Based on the collected information, a detailed digital model of Almaty's streets is planned.

“It is crucial for us that artificial intelligence becomes a working technology that transforms traditional industries and everyday life. Autonomous transport is one of the most vivid examples of this transition. We have already established regulatory conditions for testing autonomous vehicles in real urban environments. The next step is to form the necessary technological infrastructure. Creating a high-precision map of Almaty is part of this effort. We provide an opportunity for new technologies to develop in Kazakhstan while ensuring their main implementation condition—people's safety. Therefore, autonomous transport will be introduced gradually, through testing, analysis of real scenarios, and regulatory improvement,” stated Jaslan Madiev, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The high-precision map will enable autonomous vehicles to understand their location and the characteristics of the road segment. Additionally, real-time road situation analysis will be conducted.

“Almaty is the largest metropolis in the country with a complex and diverse transport infrastructure. It's crucial for the city to explore new technological capabilities and create conditions for their safe implementation. Deploying mapping vehicles will help assess the features of the urban environment and prepare the necessary technological groundwork for the subsequent stages of the project,” noted Sabit Nurkanat, Head of Almaty Digitalization Department.

At this stage, the vehicles are solely collecting data about the city's road network and are not transporting passengers autonomously.

Reported by ЖКХ24 with reference to the Almaty City Akimat website.

Photo: gov.kz