DoorDash Introduces ‘Dot’, an Autonomous Delivery Robot, in Phoenix
DoorDash has officially introduced “Dot“, its premier autonomous delivery robot. This innovative robot, capable of navigating bike lanes, roads, and sidewalks at speeds of up to 20 mph, symbolizes DoorDash’s significant leap into autonomous delivery technology. The launch begins with an early access program in Phoenix, Arizona.
Equipped with advanced AI navigation, Dot boasts eight cameras and three LiDAR sensors. This allows it to safely carry up to 30 pounds or six pizza boxes while adeptly maneuvering through complex urban environments. The robot is designed to respect pedestrians and cyclists, and can pull aside and wait for staff assistance when required.
The launch is facilitated by DoorDash’s new Autonomous Delivery Platform, an AI dispatcher that efficiently matches each order with the best delivery method – be it a human Dasher, a robot, or a drone. DoorDash aims to extend Dot’s availability to Phoenix’s 1.6 million residents by the end of 2025, thereby positioning itself as a formidable competitor to Uber and other delivery giants in the autonomous vehicle space.
“The scale and complexity of the business demands something like autonomy,” said co-founder Stanley Tang, emphasizing that Dot addresses increasingly complex delivery scenarios while supporting local merchants.
Source: CNBC