L.A.’s Sidewalks Get a Tech Upgrade: The Rise of Next-Gen Delivery Robots
Los Angeles is becoming a testing ground for the future of delivery, with a new wave of autonomous robots hitting the streets. Coco Robotics, a UCLA-born startup, recently unveiled its Coco 2 robots, promising tougher, more capable machines designed to expand delivery services beyond traditional limitations. This isn’t just about convenience; it’s a potential reshaping of urban logistics.
Beyond Groceries: Expanding the Scope of Robot Deliveries
Initially focused on food delivery through partnerships with DoorDash and DashMart, Coco Robotics is broadening its reach. The new robots are equipped to handle a wider range of goods, including groceries, electronics, and household essentials. This expansion is driven by a growing demand for efficient, last-mile delivery solutions, particularly in densely populated urban areas.
DoorDash has already integrated Coco robots into its service in Los Angeles and Chicago, building on a pilot program with its international arm, Wolt, in Helsinki, Finland. Customers may be assigned a Coco bot for their order from participating merchants.
Engineering for Resilience: Coco 2’s Advanced Features
The Coco 2 represents a significant leap forward in robot design. Upgraded cameras and front-facing lidar – the same laser-based sensors used in self-driving cars – enhance the robot’s ability to navigate complex environments. Crucially, the new bots are built to withstand challenging conditions. Coco’s CEO, Zach Rash, emphasized the robot’s ability to operate safely even during flooding, thanks to its fully submersible design, and in winter weather with compatible snow tires.
This resilience is a direct response to real-world challenges. Earlier this month, a video circulated online showing a Coco robot struggling through flooded streets in Los Angeles, prompting an outpouring of support from social media users. The incident highlighted the need for robots capable of operating in adverse weather.
Addressing the Labor Shortage and Congestion
The rollout of Coco 2 comes at a time when many businesses are struggling to find enough delivery drivers. Rash notes that many markets are telling them they “can’t hire enough people to do the deliveries and to continue to grow at the pace that customers want.” The robots offer a potential solution, filling gaps in the delivery market and reducing reliance on traditional labor.
Beyond labor, the robots aim to alleviate traffic congestion. As Harrison Shih, senior director of DoorDash Labs, points out, “Not every delivery needs a 2-ton car just to deliver two chicken sandwiches.” By utilizing smaller, electric-powered robots, cities can potentially reduce emissions and improve air quality.
The Human Element: Jobs and Oversight
While autonomous, Coco’s robots aren’t entirely independent. The company acknowledges the need for human oversight, particularly to address unexpected obstacles like damaged sidewalks or construction. This has led to the emergence of a new job category: “robot wranglers,” responsible for monitoring and assisting the robots as needed.
Despite occasional instances of pedestrians interfering with the robots, the overall community response has been positive, with Coco intentionally designing the robots to be “warm and friendly.”
Expansion Plans and Future Outlook
Coco Robotics plans to ramp up production to 1,000 bots per month this summer. The company is in discussions with officials in Culver City, Long Beach, and Pasadena about expanding its service to those communities, and is also seeing demand in areas like Studio City and the San Fernando Valley. The robots are already operating in Chicago, Miami, and Helsinki, and recently launched in Jersey City, New Jersey.
Coco’s long-term vision includes utilizing bike lanes and road shoulders for faster deliveries, where safe and permissible. The company has already completed over 500,000 zero-emission deliveries and its fleet has collectively traveled over 1 million miles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of items can Coco robots deliver?
Coco robots can deliver groceries, hot meals, electronics, household essentials, and other convenience items.
Are the robots fully autonomous?
While designed to operate autonomously, the robots are monitored by humans who can intervene if needed.
Where are Coco robots currently operating?
Coco robots are currently operating in Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, Helsinki, Finland, and Jersey City, New Jersey.
How do I order a delivery from a Coco robot?
You can order through the DoorDash app in select areas, and may be assigned a Coco robot for your delivery.
What happens if a robot encounters an obstacle?
Human monitors can remotely assist the robot, or a “robot wrangler” may be dispatched to provide assistance.
