Sunway eyes driverless transport, electric aircraft

KUALA LUMPUR: Sunway Group is exploring autonomous passenger transport, driverless logistics and electric aircraft in Malaysia through proposed collaborations with three international technology companies.

The group plans to collaborate with China-based WeRide, Neolix and AutoFlight to explore deploying their technologies across its integrated townships and businesses, spanning public transport, logistics and healthcare services.

The announcement was made by Sunway Group president Datuk Anuar Taib at Transport Expo Asia 2026.

The group is looking to acquire and trial two fully electric autonomous buses from WeRide on the Bus Rapid Transit-Sunway Line.

The pilot trial has received conditional approval from the Transport Ministry, although further steps towards the trial have not been detailed.

If successful, autonomous buses could eventually be introduced as shuttle services across Sunway's townships, potentially allowing more frequent services and longer operating hours.

Sunway plans to partner with Neolix to distribute autonomous logistics vehicles in Malaysia, which could be deployed for last-mile deliveries and the movement of goods and medical supplies between facilities.

Separately, the group is exploring the acquisition and trial of an electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft from AutoFlight, alongside a possible arrangement to distribute the aircraft locally.

"Working closely with the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia, Sunway intends to unlock new possibilities in aerial logistics, emergency response and, eventually, passenger transportation, subject to technical feasibility and regulatory approvals," it said.

Sunway's 13 business divisions including property development, construction, healthcare, retail and hospitality, could provide potential deployment opportunities for technologies across its operations.

Anuar said the initiative reflects Sunway's efforts to use technology to improve the quality of life in its communities while enabling Malaysia to tap into emerging transportation and mobility technologies.