There is something about automation that can be more efficient compared to doing things manually. It is why many factories are turning to the use of robots to manufacture and assemble products because they can be more efficient as they don’t need to stop to take breaks and can work at consistent speeds.
So it’s not surprising that we’re starting to see some of that automation when it comes to deliveries as Walmart and Gatik have announced that they have kicked off their driverless truck delivery program. This will see the trucks do away with a safety driver behind the wheel, truly making them completely driverless.
According to Tom Ward, senior vice president of last mile at Walmart U.S., “Through our work with Gatik, we’ve identified that autonomous box trucks offer an efficient, safe and sustainable solution for transporting goods on repeatable routes between our stores. We’re thrilled to be working with Gatik to achieve this industry-first, driverless milestone in our home state of Arkansas and look forward to continuing to use this technology to serve Walmart customers with speed.”
The initial rollout will cover a seven mile loop for Walmart in Bentonville, Arkansas and will see these trucks bring grocery orders from a Walmart fulfilment center to a nearby Walmart Neighborhood Market grocery store in Bentonville.
Filed in . Read more about Self-Driving Cars, Social Hit and Walmart. Source: businesswire