Hyundai Motor Group has started two pilot delivery service programs using autonomous robots based on its Plug & Drive (PnD) modular platform.
The trial will occur in a hotel and a residential-commercial complex on the outskirts of Seoul in South Korea. The delivery robot is a storage unit integrated on top of a PnD driving unit. Alongside the loading box used to deliver items, a connected screen displays information for customers. The group’s PnD modular platform is an all-in-one single-wheel unit that combines intelligent steering, braking, in-wheel electric drive and suspension hardware, including a steering actuator for 360°, holonomic rotation.
It moves autonomously with the aid of lidar and camera sensors. An integrated storage unit enables the robot to transport products to customers. By adding autonomous driving capability, the PnD-based robot can find the optimal route within the area to deliver packages to recipients. It can recognize and avoid fixed and moving objects and drive smoothly, providing a faster delivery time.
Dong Jin Hyun, head of the robotics lab at Hyundai Motor Group, said, “PnD-based delivery robots allow quicker delivery times with improved safety through the use of autonomous driving technology, including fast obstacle avoidance capabilities. We plan to keep upgrading mobility services, convenience, safety and affordability for customers through our pilot programs.”
