Driverless Delivery Service By Robotics Start-Up To Launch In California

California has given the go-ahead for a commercial driverless delivery service for the first time.

Robotics start-up Nuro plans to start its driverless delivery operations as early as next year.

Technology Under Development

It had previously tested its R2 vehicles in the province in April, but the permit will allow it to charge people for its services.

The company’s vehicles will be limited to 35mph (56km / h), and will be limited to “ideal weather” conditions.

“Issuing an initial transport permit is a key step in the transformation of private vehicles in California,” said California Department of Motor Vehicle Director Steve Gordon.

“We will continue to maintain the safety of motorists as this technology develops.”

Nuro was founded by two former Google engineers and is funded by Japanese company Softbank.

Driverless Vehicle Operation

Its vehicles are designed to operate without the driver or passengers in them.

The R2 uses radar, thermal and 360-degree cameras to direct its movement. And it has no steering wheel, pedals or side mirrors.

The car has an egg-shaped structure smaller than most cars in the US. It also has two temperature controls that are shipped. Doors open to display items once the code has been entered by the recipient.

At a previous trial in Houston, Texas, in February, R2 delivered Domino’s Pizza pizza, which was purchased from a Kroger store and Walmart goods.

However, another transport expert said safety issues would continue to be a concern.

“It will be very limited to start when the technology is properly tested,” said Professor David Bailey of the University of Birmingham.

“So, for example, cars will only be allowed on ‘overpasses’ at their average speed of 35mph, while small Nuro delivery bots will be limited to only 25mph.

“It’s a limited test, but it’s an important step in finding a future that doesn’t drive.”

In October, driverless taxis began operating in Phoenix, Arizona, as part of Google’s Waymo service.

The same service, backed by online technology company Alibaba, is currently being held in China’s largest city, Shanghai.

It marks just two of many tests involving various independent vehicles around the world.