- Uber Eats launched sidewalk robot food delivery in Tokyo using Cartken’s robots.
- The pilot marks Uber’s first robot delivery outside the US, in partnership with Mitsubishi.
- It offers a glimpse into a future where autonomous robots transform logistics.
Uber Eats is bringing a futuristic twist to food delivery in Japan, partnering with robotics startup Cartken and tech giant Mitsubishi Electric to launch a service using autonomous sidewalk robots.
The service, launching in select areas of Tokyo by March, marks Uber’s first foray into robot delivery outside the US and signals a potential future where robots become commonplace couriers.
How will robots transform delivery?
Cartken’s Model C robots will handle the deliveries, carrying insulated 27-liter cargo bins at a leisurely 3.3 miles per hour.
Advanced sensors and software guide the robots, with human backup available through Cartken’s remote monitoring system operated by Mitsubishi Electric-trained personnel.
This collaboration leverages Uber’s global reach, Cartken’s robotics expertise, and Mitsubishi Electric’s local infrastructure knowledge.
The future of logistics
Shoji Tanaka, Mitsubishi Electric’s senior general manager for advanced application development, sees the service as a solution to the looming logistics crisis: “Robot delivery is an effective countermeasure to this increasingly serious issue.
“He further envisions a future where robots move from sidewalks to indoors, utilizing Mitsubishi Electric’s expertise in building and factory infrastructure. While initial details like operating hours are still under wraps, Uber Eats’ Tokyo customers can soon expect to see their meals delivered by robots.
This pilot program paves the way for broader adoption, potentially revolutionizing food delivery and offering a glimpse into a future where autonomous robots seamlessly integrate into our daily lives.
