Robotic couriers shifting into higher gear in Chinese cities

Firms keen to leverage autonomous driving technology to save on delivery costs: Experts

JD Logistics plans to roll out 100 autonomous delivery vehicles in Changshu, Jiangsu province, before the end of this year. The technology was given a boost after Chinese President Xi Jinping mentioned such deliveries as an emerging industry for whic
JD Logistics plans to roll out 100 autonomous delivery vehicles in Changshu, Jiangsu province, before the end of this year. The technology was given a boost after Chinese President Xi Jinping mentioned such deliveries as an emerging industry for which Covid-19 had provided major opportunities. ST PHOTO: DANSON CHEONG
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For the past three months, robots have been making parcel deliveries in Changshu.

The autonomous delivery vehicles trundling around the Chinese city look like little red minivans or delivery lockers on wheels, armed with an array of sensors and cameras.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on October 30, 2020, with the headline Robotic couriers shifting into higher gear in Chinese cities. Subscribe