The Rise of the Delivery Robot: Why Footpaths Matter More Than Ever
Deliveries are often bottlenecked by drivers needing to park and walk. Imagine robots completing the last leg – this could lower delivery costs significantly.
However, unpredictable sidewalks pose a major barrier.
‘We want to map footpath network for effort and connectivity. This data will give businesses certainty, saving them time and money. While roads are well-mapped, sidewalks remain a critical missing link,’ says Scott Clifton, who heads Technology at Briometrix.
Scott emphasises the urgency of this project, citing the booming market for delivery robots. Companies like Starship Technologies are already seeing success, with millions of deliveries completed worldwide. Market forecasts predict a billion-dollar industry by 2028.
Starship Technologies, a leading company in delivery robots, has achieved notable success in the emerging market. They’ve completed over 3 million commercial deliveries globally, traversed millions of miles, and boast a network operating in over 30 cities across 20 countries. This widespread deployment indicates strong industry adoption and consumer acceptance. Markets forecasts the market size to reach $1.8 billion by 2028, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of over 33%.
To support a robust solution for commercial wheeled vehicles Scott would argue that here is where our Wheelchair User Field team members are the ultimate sidewalk testers – knowing they’re intimately aware of every bump, ramp and obstacle.
Compared to robots, humans can navigate the complexities of sidewalks and provide invaluable data. This can translate to massive cost savings for delivery companies, enabling them to plan the most efficient routes.
Looking ahead, it is predicted this will be the new challenge for city councils – how to adapt infrastructure for smoother deliveries and a more robust e-commerce ecosystem.
