In an era of curbside collection, one retailer is taking this service to the next level—teaming up with a Victoria-based robotics company to enhance contactless pickup.
Set to debut at London Drugs’ downtown Yates Street location, the electric and remotely operated four-wheel vehicle, dubbed ROLL-E, will deliver orders directly to a customer’s vehicle.
Engineered by InDro Robotics, London Drugs says the ground-based robot features a temperature-controlled cargo bay, front and rear cameras, GPS tracking, and wireless charging capability.
“We’re excited to pilot ROLL-E at our Harris Green Village store and further explore the full range of applications that this technology can add to our services in Victoria and to other locations throughout Western Canada,” said Clint Mahlman, London Drugs president and COO.
According to London Drugs, the robot cruises up to 10 km/h and produces zero emissions, utilizing existing infrastructures like pathways and sidewalks.
It also offers the same advantages as drones without the impacts on airspace.
Previously, London Drugs and InDro had teamed up with Canada Post and Country Grocer for a trial that tested using drones to speed up the delivery of medications to customers on remote Salt Spring Island.
