Robot Couriers Begin Delivering Goods in Shenzhen Metro

A unique innovation has appeared in the public transportation system of Shenzhen, China: 41 autonomous robot couriers delivering goods for 7-Eleven stores via the metro have been launched. These devices, resembling penguins, are noted as the world’s first delivery robots fully integrated into a metropolitan subway system.

The robots are equipped with advanced spatial scanning systems to navigate passenger flows and algorithms to avoid collisions. They can independently call elevators, pass through turnstiles using special chips, and synchronize with train schedules. Each robot has a carrying capacity of 50 kilograms and a battery charge that allows up to 8 hours of continuous operation.

This innovative initiative fully aligns with China’s “Smart Robot Development Plan” adopted in March. Shenzhen, home to over 1,600 companies related to robotics, is becoming a major testing ground for urban automation.