Chinese online retailer JD.com Inc has launched a robot delivery service at multiple universities across China.
The autonomous delivery robots feature parcel storage units and ‘smart’ locks that can only be operated via a QR code. Built in a variety of sizes, the electric-powered robots have a range of 20 kilometres on a single charge and can travel at up to15 kilometres per hour.
Our logistics systems can be unmanned and 100% automated in 5 to 8 years
JD.com’s robot delivery service was launched during the 18 June 18 shopping festival at a number of universities including People’s University, Tsinghua University, Zhejiang University and Chang’an University. The company plans to expand to other university campuses to develop its autonomous vehicle delivery programme soon.
Last month JD.com announced that it us build a heavy-duty drone for rural deliveries.
“Our logistics systems can be unmanned and 100% automated in 5 to 8 years,” said JD.com chairman Liu Qiangdong.