Amazon Tests Robot-Powered Deliveries with Rivian EVs

Amazon has started testing humanoid robots for package delivery, using its fleet of over 20,000 Rivian electric delivery vans. 

Launched in June, the trial aims to have robots exit the vans and deliver packages directly to customers’ doors, streamlining the process.

The initiative, reported by The Information, is being tested in a San Francisco facility dubbed a “humanoid park,” an indoor obstacle course mimicking real-world delivery scenarios.  

Rivian Vans and Robot Integration

Amazon’s electric vans are made by RIvian, a US-based EV maker that’s fast gaining popularity.

The vans, designed for sustainability, feature advanced safety and navigation systems. The robots, including models from China’s Unitree, will ride in the vans and use Amazon’s custom software, built on DeepSeek-VL2 and Alibaba’s Qwen, to navigate and deliver.

This marks a shift from Amazon’s warehouse-based robotics to real-world applications.  

Testing and Future Plans

The San Francisco facility allows Amazon to simulate delivery environments, with plans for real-world “field trips” soon. 

While Amazon has experience with warehouse robots like Agility Robotics’ Digit, deploying humanoids in unpredictable outdoor settings is a new challenge.

Success could reduce delivery times and emissions, aligning with Amazon’s net-zero carbon goal by 2040.  

Impact on Logistics

This trial could redefine e-commerce logistics, combining Rivian’s eco-friendly vans with cutting-edge robotics. 

With plans to expand to 100,000 vans, Amazon aims to lead in sustainable, efficient deliveries, potentially setting a new industry standard.  

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