Amazon is actively testing a fleet of autonomous delivery robots. While testing is currently limited to one area, Amazon appears to believe this vehicle, called the Scout, is the future of home deliveries. What should UPS employees be afraid of.
From Prime Air to Amazon Scouts
Back in 2013, Amazon introduced the Amazon Prime Air. In a 60-minute segment, Amazon boss Jeff Bezos promised that a fleet of drones would be delivering packages by air in a few years. It’s 2019 and Amazon Prime Air is nowhere to be seen.
Amazon has a dedicated robotics wing working on other options. Until now, Amazon robot workers have been limited to moving groceries around Amazon warehouses. But now the company has unveiled the Scout, which is taking to the streets.
Amazon sends a scout on a mission
As detailed on the Amazon blog, Scout is a small offline shipping method. It is the size of a small cooler, powered by electric batteries, and travels at high speed. And, of course, it’s designed to deliver Amazon packages to people’s doors.
Amazon is testing the Scout first in one area in Snohomish County, Washington. A fleet of six scouts will deliver Amazon packages Monday through Friday during daylight hours. They will follow designated shipping routes, accompanied by an Amazon employee.
