Evri has begun a three-month trial of autonomous delivery robots in Barnsley, UK, in partnership with Delivers.AI.
The pilot is taking place in the Redbrook area and will test the use of robots for last-mile parcel deliveries. Barnsley has been designated the UK’s first government-backed ‘tech town,’ and the trial is intended to assess how robotics can support local couriers while offering customers additional delivery options.
Residents who opt in can receive parcels via robot during the trial period. Once a delivery is scheduled, customers receive a link by SMS to select a time slot and track the robot in real time. On arrival, the recipient unlocks the robot using a secure link. If the customer is not at home, the parcel is returned to the depot for redelivery by a courier.
The electric robots operate from the Barnsley Business and Innovation Centre and are monitored remotely by Evri and Delivers.AI. The companies said the units comply with traffic regulations and are designed to operate around the clock. They can also be manually redirected if an obstruction or other issue occurs.
Evri said the trial will explore how autonomous deliveries could complement existing courier operations and support its target to reach net zero emissions by 2035.
Marcus Hunter, chief technology officer at Evri Group, said, “We’re always looking at innovative ways to improve the delivery experience for our customers. The robots will work alongside our couriers, supporting them in their roles while helping to increase the speed, convenience and flexibility of the services we offer.”
Martin Beesley of the Barnsley Business and Innovation Centre said hosting the pilot reflects the town’s focus on innovation and technology in logistics and digital sectors. Councillor Robin Franklin, Barnsley Council’s cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, said the project demonstrates the borough’s ambition to test technologies that could shape the future of home delivery.
The trial is currently limited to a small area of Redbrook. Residents can check eligibility by postcode and opt out at any time. Evri said the results will inform decisions on potential expansion.
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