Just Eat UK just kicked off an exciting trial of its four-legged delivery robots, called RIVR, in real city conditions. This phase of the project will teach these robots what they can do, especially when it comes to overcoming difficult urban environmental barriers like stairs. The trial is currently underway in two cities: Milton Keynes and Bristol.
In Milton Keynes, local restaurants such as 12th Street Burgers & Shakes and Moores Fish & Chips are participating in the trial. Over in Bristol, a mix of these eight restaurants – Jolly Fryer, Chicken Mews and Bishopston Fish Bar – have made it through to the quarter finals. In addition to Edinburgh and London, across both cities a total of ten independent restaurants are piloting the RIVR robots with Just Eat UK.
The thoughtful design of RIVR robots is what makes them a viable alternative to other, more conventional ways of making deliveries. Each robot features four limbs, each ending in a foot equipped with small wheels. This powerful design equips it to tackle all types of urban terrain with ease. The robots are designed to address “daunting urban challenges,” equipping them to traverse busy city streets and climb stairs.
This trial comes after a similar pilot in Switzerland, where close to 1,000 autonomous deliveries were completed successfully. Just Eat UK has partnered with RIVR as their exclusive learning partner. This project is the next large step in the automation delivery systems race across cities in Europe.
Marko Bjelonic, chief executive of RIVR, said this public-private cooperation was key.
“This partnership is an important step in scaling autonomous delivery across European cities.” – Marko Bjelonic
RIVR not only features an exclusive patented design that makes it unique. Each robot sports a smart orange Just Eat box on its back, so you’ll recognise them from the UK’s largest takeaway delivery company. As urban areas continue to expand and demand for delivery services rises, the testing of RIVR robots represents a proactive solution that could revolutionize how food is delivered in cities.
“The launch in Milton Keynes reflects a shared focus on practical, automated delivery that integrates seamlessly into existing operations.” – Marko Bjelonic
Just Eat UK’s trial of RIVR robots is to help enhance the customer experience. It addresses the logistical challenges delivery services are undermined by when it comes to operating in urban environments. Whatever the result of this trial, it will likely clear the way for the wider deployment of such autonomous, last-mile delivery systems in our communities in the future.
Just Eat UK’s trial of RIVR robots not only aims to enhance customer experience but also seeks to address logistical challenges faced by delivery services in urban settings. The outcome of this trial may pave the way for broader deployment of autonomous delivery systems in the future.