Leeds plans robot delivery service expansion amid emission cuts

Robot delivery services are expanding in U.S. cities like Chicago and Los Angeles through a partnership between DoorDash and Coco, promising emission-free deliveries that do not require tips. However, this innovation raises concerns about potential impacts on DoorDash's human drivers, as customers cannot choose between robot and human deliveries. In Leeds, UK, a pilot scheme for grocery deliveries via robots has saved approximately 6,000 kg of CO2 by replacing car journeys, with plans for further trials in collaboration with local universities and logistics firms. Despite the environmental benefits, some council members worry that these services may negatively affect local retailers, as robots are not suited for large grocery orders. Starship Technologies, the company behind the Leeds initiative, claims that robot deliveries use minimal energy, comparable to boiling water for a single cup of tea. The trials in Leeds remain limited due to regulatory restrictions on robot usage on public roads.