Smart Mobility Marvel: Brain-Controlled ‘a2i Smart Car’ Showcased

A talented young innovator with special needs from Jashore, Wakimul Islam Rifat, has developed a brain-controlled battery-powered “a2i Smart Car.” Physically challenged individuals who are unable to move their hands or legs can easily operate the vehicle through a body-mounted device connected to the nervous system. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman rode the specially invented smart car and encouraged the young college student.

On 9 May, Saturday morning, at the Prime Minister’s Office in Tejgaon, Dhaka, the head of government inspected the vehicle built by Wakimul Islam, who is 2 feet 8 inches tall and physically challenged. At one stage, the Prime Minister boarded the smart car, and Wakimul demonstrated its operation by driving him around. He showed how individuals without limbs or with severe physical disabilities can operate the vehicle using this technology.

While observing the vehicle, the Prime Minister said that talented youths will be the future smart citizens of Bangladesh. He noted that Wakimul has proven that physical limitations are not barriers to creativity. He assured that the government would provide all necessary support to advance such innovative initiatives.

The invention of this special smart car has drawn attention to the talent and innovation potential of students with disabilities in the country. Wakimul Islam’s initiative is being seen as an inspiring example for the younger generation.

During the inspection, the Prime Minister was accompanied by Principal Secretary A B M Abdus Sattar, Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Ruman, and Deputy Press Secretary Zahidul Islam Rony. Also present were Mostafa Zulfikar Hasan (Hasan Shiplu), Shahadat Hossain Swadhin, and other senior government officials. Deputy Press Secretary Zahidul Islam Rony confirmed the details of the visit.

Earlier, the inventor Wakimul began the project with only 5,000 taka from his personal savings. After 2 to 3 years of persistent effort, he successfully built the vehicle. On 25 April, at the Tejgaon office premises, Tarique Rahman had also inspected a go-kart (racing car) built by college student Rijwan Rashid and later drove it to encourage him.

Regarding the innovation, Rifat said that about seven years ago, due to his physical disability, he faced difficulties moving from one place to another. This inspired him to design a vehicle that could be controlled by the human brain’s nervous system. As a result, not only he but also others with similar physical challenges can operate the car. He began the project with just 5,000 taka saved over five years from school tiffin money. It took 2 to 3 years to complete. In addition to his savings, he used Eid gifts, and his father, Abu Khayer, provided financial support. Beyond financial assistance, his father also contributed labor to the project alongside his professional responsibilities.

DBTech/SH/MUM/OR