WhitePaper information
Author(s)
Tim Klein,
Adviser mobility
Delivery robots, an emerging aspect of future mobility, have shown promising results in the Netherlands over the past three years. This article delves into the insights gained from these initial projects, in line with the roadmap of The Future Mobility Network and Dutch Automated Mobility (Figure 1) for autonomous delivery systems.
The ultimate goal is the large-scale deployment of self-driving delivery robots on public roads. This article encompasses project results in the areas of technology, operations, social inclusivity, policy, regulation, business feasibility, readiness, and suppliers.
In response to increasing logistical complexity, urban distribution needs, labor shortages, and environmental considerations, self-driving delivery robots offer a viable solution to the last-mile challenge. These insights have been developed through collaborative projects with market participants, government agencies, and research institutions in Delft, Rotterdam, Breda, and Leiden. The initiatives took place on university campuses, the Future Mobility Park testing grounds, and briefly on public roads. Numerous successful autonomous deliveries, even under challenging traffic conditions, mark the beginning of a transformative era for delivery robots. The next phase involves broader integration on public roads, engaging various road users to expand our knowledge base. By documenting these lessons learned, we envision a future where delivery robots play a critical role.