KARACHI: A young Pakistani innovator has captured attention with his remarkable achievement of converting a 1000cc manual car into a fully smartphone-controlled vehicle. The project, developed by Muhammad Subhan from Taxila, demonstrates how emerging technologies can be applied to mobility and accessibility solutions. Subhan now aims to take this innovation further by integrating artificial intelligence to transform the vehicle into a self-driving car, specifically designed to assist specially-abled individuals who face mobility challenges.
Subhan shared details of his project on ARY News program Bakhabar Savera, explaining that the vehicle can be operated entirely through a mobile application that is already available on Google Play Store. He revealed that the prototype was developed within three months, during which he designed and installed a specialized kit inside the car. The kit connects seamlessly with the smartphone application, enabling control of critical vehicle functions such as the steering, accelerator, brakes, and clutch. With these capabilities, the car can be maneuvered without direct physical input from a driver seated at the wheel, showcasing how digital interfaces can reshape traditional automobiles.
While the innovation is still in its early stages, Subhan acknowledged its current limitations. The vehicle does not yet incorporate sensors and is best suited for tasks such as parking and basic maneuvering. However, his long-term vision centers on providing independence to disabled individuals by giving them the ability to control a vehicle through a mobile device. He highlighted how the smartphone can manage the clutch, while gear shifting remains manual at this stage. “Right now, the gear is not automated. We shift the gear manually, release the clutch with the phone, and then continue driving,” he said. The combination of smartphone connectivity and manual operation ensures that the vehicle retains flexibility, enabling it to be driven both digitally and traditionally. Subhan added that a simple button allows users to switch between smartphone operation and manual driving, giving the vehicle dual functionality.
The aspiring innovator, who holds a diploma in mechanical studies, envisions the eventual integration of artificial intelligence into the system. His goal is to allow the car to receive voice commands such as “drive to Lahore” or “go to Rawalpindi” and then autonomously transport passengers to their destinations. Such advancements would place his project in the same technological conversation as international self-driving initiatives. Subhan credits his inspiration to global tech leaders like Elon Musk and expressed his desire to compete with the Tesla CEO one day, emphasizing that local innovators can also develop world-class solutions.
Subhan’s project underscores the growing potential of youth-driven innovation in Pakistan, where emerging talent continues to explore ways of blending mechanical engineering with smart technologies. His work illustrates how cost-effective, locally developed solutions can pave the way for practical applications in assistive technology and automotive transformation. With ambitions to expand the project further, his journey reflects not only a personal milestone but also the expanding role of Pakistani innovators in the global technological landscape.
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