An Emirati off-road vehicle is aiming to take on military missions independently, even in the UAE’s most demanding environments.
Called xRift, the unmanned platform is Abu Dhabi-based SteerAI’s latest multi-mission platform, featuring a modular utility deck that can carry payloads of up to 500 kilograms (1,102 pounds).
Paired with the company’s CoreX autonomous driving system, the vehicle is positioned as an “all-in-one” solution for missions that would normally require crewed vehicles.
According to SteerAI Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Michael Sonderby, xRift is designed to operate reliably in harsh environments where risk to personnel is high.
He added that its mission versatility “sets it apart” from similar vehicles available in the market.
“xRift represents a new generation of high-performance autonomous offroad solution that is reliable, scalable, and customizable to end users’ exact operational needs,” Sonderby said.
Driving With CoreX
StreeAI’s CoreX driving system combines modular hardware with AI-driven software to allow the vehicle to perceive its surroundings, navigate obstacles, and make driving decisions autonomously.
The system can be integrated into different vehicle platforms with minimal modifications and be used in maneuvering through deserts and rocky terrain.
Numbers Behind xRift
Powered by a 2,250-horsepower engine, xRift has a reported top speed of 50 kilometers (31 miles) per hour and boasts a 47-liter (12.4-gallon) fuel tank.
It weighs 1,350 kilograms (2,976 pounds) and measures just over 4.2 meters (13.8 feet) in length.
With a width of 1.9 meters (6.2 feet) and a height of 1.4 meters (4.6 feet), the platform is designed to remain compact while maintaining stability during off-road operations.
SteerAI expects xRift to be ready for operational use by the end of 2026.
“xRift fills a crucial gap in the market for flexible, field-ready autonomy that’s built for the region,” said Reda Nidhakou, CEO of VentureOne, the parent company of SteerAI.
“It shows how local innovation can meet the operational realities of the defense and logistics sectors, delivering autonomy that’s robust and ready for deployment, both here and abroad.”
