Robots start delivering supplies to residents in Guanshanhu district

Two self-driving delivery robots – which made their debut in Guanshanhu district in Guiyang city in Southwest China's Guizhou province on Feb 21 – are the shape of things to come, as well as a potentially key development in the fight against the novel coronavirus, according to officials. 

The delivery robots operated by the JD Logistics, will significantly reduce the risk of infection, they added.

JD Logistics employees log into the screen of the robot and enter the order number, to input details of the customers' package. Each robot can carry up to 22 small and medium-sized parcels at a time.

The robot can navigate around vehicles and pedestrians, to make a successful supply delivery to its destination.

"We can receive our deliveries from these robots rather than being in contact with human beings," a resident said.

"The risk of infection is significantly reduced and distributing and receiving supplies are made safer," she added.

JD staff said the autonomous delivery device is extremely versatile and flexible.

"The robot automatically sends a text message or call to remind customers to pick up their goods," an employee said. "The robot automatically returns after 30 minutes. Its furthest delivery range is about 10 kilometers."

According to the operations plan of JD Logistics, distribution stations in Guanshanhu district will be set up, with a maximum delivery of 2,000 parcels per day. Working alongside the traditional logistics distribution system, the station will provide services for residents within a 5-kilometer radius.

Officials said that with the development of Guanshanhu district and the continuous growth of delivery orders, more delivery robots and drones will be used in the future to provide the necessary supplies for schools, communities and even hospitals.

A delivery robot goes on the way to its destination. [Photo/Chinanews.com]

A resident picks up her delivery from a delivery robot in Guanshanhu district in Guiyang city on Feb 21. [Photo/Guiyang Daily]

Zhao Yandi contributed to the story