Avride Reveals Next-Gen Four-Wheeled Delivery Robots for Efficient Service

Avride, a robotics firm originating from the Russian tech giant Yandex, has introduced an innovative new model of its sidewalk delivery robots, aimed at increasing operational efficiency. The latest delivery robots, which are designed to manage Uber Eats deliveries, now boast four wheels instead of the previous six, representing a significant step forward in engineering and functionality.

Currently being deployed in Austin, Texas, and on the horizon for South Korea, Avride’s redesigned robots are anticipated to provide superior energy efficiency, allowing them to operate longer between recharges. The initial six-wheeled versions were easily constructed and could deftly traverse various terrains, but their design came with drawbacks. The additional wheels created excess friction, depleting the internal batteries more rapidly, a challenge that prompted a complete overhaul of the robot’s design.

With the new four-wheeled configuration, Avride has made strides in how its delivery robots navigate the urban environment. The wheels are skillfully mounted on movable arms linked to a pivoting axle, facilitating inward and outward rotation while reducing friction during turns. This pivotal innovation means the wheels on each side are mechanically synchronized, allowing for simultaneous adjustments in their turning angles, which in turn enhances precision in maneuvering. According to Avride, this mechanism allows the robots to perform 180-degree turns almost instantly, cladding them in the agility necessary to navigate narrow sidewalks or quickly adjust paths for pedestrians, including those using wheelchairs or strollers.

Alongside the structural enhancements, the robot’s control system has also been improved for better torque management, and the upgraded hardware features Nvidia’s Jetson Orin platform. This not only augments processing speed but also provides the capacity for advanced machine intelligence, allowing the robots to learn from their environments.

Moreover, Avride has introduced a modular cargo area, enabling delivery operators to adjust the compartments based on the specific sizes of packages being transported. A user-friendly LED panel displays a range of animated expressions—including friendly digitized eyes—which are intended to foster a sense of connection with customers, while also mitigating potential vandalism. This feature is meant to humanize the robots, creating a more approachable presence as they navigate city streets.

Manufactured in Taiwan, the new delivery robots are slated to join Avride’s fleet in Austin shortly, with plans aimed at deploying over a hundred units by January 2025. Yulia Shveyko, an Avride spokesperson, indicated that the company is also expanding its operations through a new partnership with Uber, which includes extending their services to Jersey City and Dallas, alongside offering a robotaxi service.

Avride’s advancements in delivery robotics pose a promising outlook for the future of urban logistics, highlighting not just technological innovation but a keen understanding of user experience and city navigation needs as companies increasingly turn to automation for service enhancement.