After a small pilot, FedEx has agreed a multi-year, multi-phase test programme of Nuro ground delivery robots. Autonomous delivery robotics firm Nuro and FedEx did a pilot of the delivery robots in Houston, Texas, marking Nuro’s first move into parcel logistics. At the same time FedEx is able to test various use cases for on-road autonomous vehicle logistics that will include multi-stop and appointment-based deliveries.

“FedEx was built on innovation, and it continues to be an integral part of our culture and business strategy,” said Rebecca Yeung, vice president, advanced technology and innovation, FedEx Corporation. “We are excited to collaborate with an industry leader like Nuro as we continue to explore the use of autonomous technologies within our operations.”

US based Nuro has been testing its delivery robots for nearly five years in multiple cities, getting a number of industry-first regulatory approvals. To date it has been working in grocery, restaurant and pharmacy deliveries.

“Working with FedEx – the global leader in logistics – is an incredible opportunity to rethink every aspect of local delivery. This multi-year commitment will allow us to truly collaborate and bring Nuro’s powerful technology to more people in new ways, and eventually reach large-scale deployment,” said Cosimo Leipold, Nuro’s head of partnerships. “Our collaboration will enable innovative, industry-first product offerings that will better everyday life and help make communities safer and greener.”