Tech Desk 
Feb 13, 2025
In a groundbreaking initiative, Karachi’s NED University of Engineering and Technology is developing Pakistan’s first AI-powered driverless car.
This pioneering project is being worked on at the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence (NCAI) of the university, which is one of nine research centres established by the federal government to promote innovation and technological advancements across the country.
According to university engineers, NED University will be the first institution in Pakistan to develop an AI-driven driverless car.
Driverless car to hit Karachi roads
To bring this vision to life, a special electric vehicle (EV) has been imported from China and is currently being equipped with advanced AI tools, with the first test drive scheduled to take place within the next six months.
Dr Muhammad Khurram, associate professor at NED who's supervising the project, expressed optimism about achieving real-time vehicle control, citing significant progress in data processing and software development.
Additionally, two university research students, Inzamam and Aleema, who are contributing to this project noted that the project integrates AI, robotics, and mapping to enable the vehicle to navigate complex traffic scenarios.
Notably, the team has already developed and tested algorithms for speed limits, object detection, and lane recognition in a virtual simulation.
Currently under development, this driverless car is expected to be operational at the NED University campus within the stated timeframe.
