Delivery robots arrive in Vancouver; Six-month trial approved

 

 

Vancouver City Council has approved a six-month trial using robots to deliver food on city sidewalks. The project is being implemented by American company 'Serve Robotics'. The robots will start operating in the downtown and Kitsilano areas by the end of this year.

Authorities believe that using such small, electric-powered robots instead of cars will reduce carbon emissions and reduce delivery costs. Councillor Mike Klassen said that this delivery method will help avoid traffic congestion and deliver food quickly over short distances.

At the same time, concerns are being raised from some quarters against robots landing on sidewalks. The main fear is that these robots will hinder pedestrians, especially those with disabilities. Councillor Lucy Maloney pointed out that the city of Toronto has banned such robots due to safety concerns.

However, company officials say that if these robots, which use sensors to navigate themselves, encounter any difficulties, they can immediately seek help from a human operator and are less risky than cars. The municipality will make a final decision on whether to continue the project based on the results obtained after six months of monitoring.