In Reading, DPD has been working hand-in-hand with the local council. They are requesting official authorization to run autonomous delivery robots on pre-approved routes. Their initiative specifically aims to assess the feasibility of using these robots to make last-mile, or in-city, deliveries. This sector has largely been at the forefront of growth and expansion since 2020. The trial is a major step towards modernizing Reading’s parcel drop-offs. Not only does it address the increasing congestion caused by delivery vehicles, it shows real leadership in cutting carbon emissions.
Turro added that four-wheeled robots are currently rolling around Reading, delivering food. Residents have been able to get some amazing footage of these robots gracefully gliding down the local streets. They have recently been spotted cruising down the city sidewalk and street, which is causing safety and accident risk alarms for pedestrians and drivers. DPD is still taking these safety issues into consideration in its operational planning moving forward.
As stated by a DPD spokesperson, “If that approval is granted, we will start deliveries with one robot, at first.” This plan demonstrates our commitment to using innovative delivery solutions. These solutions can vastly decrease the negative environmental impact caused by today’s delivery vehicles. In an indirect way, DPD have acknowledged that there is no legal basis to require a license to operate autonomous robots on UK roads. This additional clarity could help speed up the overall approval process.
The trial in Reading is still a part of a larger initiative. Similar trials have been conducted in other UK towns, including Milton Keynes, Raunds, Bristol and Lincolnshire. The World Economic Forum recently published a report highlighting the increasing demand for efficient urban deliveries, stating, “Without further action, both delivery vehicle numbers and carbon emissions could rise by as much as 60% by 2030.” The report emphasizes the need for proper policies and infrastructure to enable the private sector to enhance sustainable delivery methods.
DPD is currently working to gain approval from the borough council. Simultaneously, the company is working to address safety issues associated with its robots on sidewalks. During that first phase, we plan to start with one robot on a predetermined route. This arrangement will optimize our ability to monitor its performance and interaction with pedestrians and roadway traffic.