Uber Eats is embarking on an innovative venture by introducing autonomous food delivery robots to the streets of Tokyo. This expansion, set to commence by the end of March, is a collaborative effort between Uber Eats, robotics startup Cartken, and Japanese industrial leader Mitsubishi Electric.
Cartken’s Model C delivery robots, equipped with cutting-edge artificial intelligence and advanced sensors, will navigate Tokyo sidewalks with ease. These robots boast a cargo capacity of up to 27 litres and can travel at a walking pace of 3.3 miles per hour, offering efficient and reliable delivery services.
A notable feature of Cartken’s technology is its ability for remote monitoring and guidance, ensuring seamless navigation even in the face of unforeseen obstacles.
Customers in designated delivery zones across Tokyo will have the option to select autonomous robot delivery when ordering through the Uber Eats app. Once an order is placed, the robot will autonomously travel to the restaurant for pickup and then proceed to the customer’s location. Alternatively, customers can opt for contactless delivery, with the meal left at the door.
Mitsubishi Electric will oversee the operations and training of the delivery robots in Tokyo, aiming to drive the adoption of robot delivery services in Japan and address the country’s logistical labour shortage.
The autonomous delivery program, initially launched in Miami in 2022 and later expanded to Fairfax, Virginia, now marks its first international deployment in Tokyo. Cartken CEO Qingrong “Gary” Xiao expressed enthusiasm about partnering with Uber Eats and Mitsubishi Electric to provide Tokyo residents with unparalleled delivery experiences.
While specific details regarding participating restaurants and delivery areas are yet to be disclosed, more information is expected closer to the late March launch date, promising an exciting evolution in Tokyo’s food delivery landscape.