Nuro and FedEx Partner for Logistics and Autonomous Delivery

Nuro and FedEx Partner for Autonomous Parcel Delivery

Founded in 2016 by Dave Ferguson and Jiajun Zhu, both formerly of Google, Nuro, an autonomous delivery startup, is now venturing into parcel logistics through a collaborative effort with FedEx.

Strategic Partnership Details

Announced on Tuesday, this multiyear, multiphased strategic partnership intends to test and eventually integrate Nuro’s next-generation autonomous delivery vehicle into FedEx’s operational framework. This new vehicle will succeed Nuro’s R2 bot.

Nuro distinguishes itself within the autonomous vehicle sector by concentrating its resources on creating a low-speed, electric, self-driving vehicle specifically for package transport, rather than passenger transport. Previously, the company’s deliveries focused on items like groceries, prepared foods, and medical supplies.

Expanding Delivery Capabilities

Nuro has established partnerships with companies such as CVS, Domino’s, and Kroger. The agreement with FedEx represents its initial expansion into the realm of parcel logistics.

A pilot program is already underway in Houston, Texas. According to Cosimo Leipold, Nuro’s head of partnerships, this extended commitment will facilitate the wider application of their technology and ultimately lead to large-scale deployment.

FedEx's Previous Autonomous Efforts

FedEx has independently developed its own autonomous vehicle technology, including a sidewalk delivery robot. Known as the SameDay Bot, and designated Roxo, it was created in conjunction with DEKA Development & Research Corp. and Dean Kamen, the inventor of the Segway and iBot wheelchair.

FedEx initially presented its SameDay Bot in February 2019. The robot utilizes sensing technologies, including lidar and multiple cameras, combined with machine learning algorithms to navigate safely, avoiding obstacles and adhering to traffic regulations.

Initial Retail Partnerships for SameDay Bot

The company initially planned to collaborate with retailers like AutoZone, Lowe’s, Pizza Hut, Target, Walgreens, and Walmart to explore the integration of autonomous robots into its delivery services.

The concept involved FedEx providing a delivery solution for retailers to fulfill orders from local customers, delivering them directly to homes or businesses on the same day. Testing of these bots occurred in Memphis, Tennessee, as well as Plano and Frisco, Texas, and Manchester, New Hampshire.

Shifting Focus to Road-Based Delivery

The Nuro partnership signifies a shift from sidewalk-based delivery to operation on public roads. Nuro’s R2 is larger in size and engineered for operation on roadways, enabling it to cover greater distances and transport heavier payloads.

FedEx has affirmed a long-term dedication to utilizing Nuro’s autonomous bots for large-scale, last-mile delivery.

Rebecca Yeung, vice president of advanced technology and innovation at FedEx Corporation, stated, “FedEx was built on innovation, and it continues to be an integral part of our culture and business strategy.”