One of the highlights of the World Future Energy Summit was the 'cyber taxi', which will be a key feature of the zero-carbon Masdar City being built in Abu Dhabi.

Up to 3,000 electric cars are expected to operate at the $22 billion development, with passengers being picked up from around 90 'personal rapid transportation' (PRT) stops positioned at strategic points.

The driverless taxis, manufactured by the Netherlands-based 2getthere, run on electric power and will operate 24 hours a day within the six-square kilometre city.

Passengers select their destination automatically via a touchscreen; the cars - which travel at up to 40kph - are guided by and onboard navigation system.

-Words by Jay Akasie, Trends magazine