Rakuten and Seiyu launch Japan’s first autonomous delivery robots
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Rakuten has partnered with Seiyu to launch Japan’s first autonomous delivery robots service with JD in Umikaze Park.
Using the Rakuten Drone app, Umikaze Park visitors can place their orders from the Seiyu Livin Yokosuka Store and receive the products delivered by the Rakuten UGV (unmanned ground vehicle).
“JD develops unmanned technologies to provide customers a superior experience, and we highly value the partnership with Rakuten,” said Qi Kong, head of autonomous driving at JD Logistics. “This is a demonstration of how we are opening up our solutions to customers beyond JD.”
The autonomous delivery robots service will be available only from September 21 to October 27.
Earlier this year, JD and Rakuten signed a partnership to develop unmanned delivery solutions, one of which was drone-delivery service on Sarushima Island in Tokyo Bay.
Questions & Answers
Q.Which companies are involved in launching this autonomous delivery robot service in Japan?
Which companies are involved in launching this autonomous delivery robot service in Japan?
Rakuten has partnered with Seiyu and JD to launch this service. JD develops the unmanned technologies used in the delivery robots, while Rakuten and Seiyu are the primary partners in Japan.
Q.Where is this autonomous delivery robot service being trialled?
Where is this autonomous delivery robot service being trialled?
The autonomous delivery robot service is being trialled in Umikaze Park. Visitors to the park can use the Rakuten Drone app to order products from the Seiyu Livin Yokosuka Store for delivery by the robots.
Q.What is the duration of this autonomous delivery robot service trial?
What is the duration of this autonomous delivery robot service trial?
The autonomous delivery robot service is a temporary trial. It will be available only from September 21 to October 27, suggesting a limited-time demonstration rather than a permanent launch.
Q.How do customers place orders for delivery via these autonomous robots?
How do customers place orders for delivery via these autonomous robots?
Customers in Umikaze Park can place their orders using the Rakuten Drone app. The app allows them to select products from the Seiyu Livin Yokosuka Store, which are then delivered by the Rakuten UGV.
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