Uber Eats is dialing up its commitment to autonomous food delivery with a plan to dispatch an additional 2,000 delivery robots across various US markets. This marks a significant expansion of the existing partnership between Uber Eats and Serve Robotics.
The upcoming surge of delivery robots on the streets is an extension of the initiative Uber Eats launched with Serve Robotics. Originally a part of Uber, Serve Robotics became a separate entity in 2021 following Uber’s acquisition of Postmates. The two companies initiated a pilot program in West Hollywood last year, where autonomous Serve Robotics models began testing their delivery capabilities. This latest announcement symbolizes a vote of confidence in the success of the pilot and an anticipation of further technological breakthroughs.
Serve Robotics is preparing to broaden its Los Angeles pilot program to several other markets in the United States. As part of this expansion, an estimated 2,000 autonomous delivery robots are expected to begin operations. “This partnership is a major step towards mass commercialization of robotics for autonomous delivery, and it is a testament to the success of our partnership,” said Serve Robotics CEO Dr. Kashani.
The Los Angeles pilot program was positively received by both Serve Robotics and Uber Eats. Dozens of robots already serving more than 200 restaurants in the area have experienced a month-over-month growth in demand exceeding 30%. The robots, which operate between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m., are scheduled to continue their deliveries through 2026, at least, according to TechCrunch.
These robots have proved their dedication to efficient delivery, even in challenging situations. In a memorable incident last year, a Serve Robotics model managed to navigate a crime scene at Hollywood High School, in a bizarre meeting of the future and the present. The robot, undeterred by the chaos, attempted to complete its delivery, prompting Serve Robotics to clarify that it was the result of a human supervisor attempting to reroute the robot around a roadblock.
This is an exciting leap for Uber Eats and Serve Robotics as they push the boundaries of technology and food delivery in a rapidly evolving marketplace.
