Coco robots are now delivering food in Chicago as part of a new pilot program, enhancing convenience for local residents.
Chicago: So, there’s this cool new thing happening in Chicago. Coco robots are rolling around delivering food! Picture a little cooler on wheels, and that’s pretty much it.
These robots are part of a pilot program, and they’re already making their way through neighborhoods like Fulton Market and the West Loop. They’re not just sticking to college campuses like some other delivery bots.
Imagine this: a Coco robot is cruising down the sidewalk with a steak quesadilla inside. It hits a snag when a postal truck blocks its path. Instead of freaking out, it just stops and waits. Pretty chill, right?
These little guys are equipped with cameras and sensors, plus a human “safety pilot” keeping an eye on things. They’re designed to navigate busy streets and avoid getting squished by cars.
Right now, about 20 of these pink robots are zipping around, delivering food ordered through DoorDash. When they arrive, you just hit a button on your app to open them up. Easy peasy!
The pilot program is set to run until the end of May, and if all goes well, they might expand to cover more of the city. The founder, Zach Rash, is optimistic about it.
These robots are pretty sturdy, weighing around 100 pounds and moving at a leisurely 5 mph. They’ve been tested in other places, like Los Angeles, where they’ve racked up a million miles without major accidents.
Winter in Chicago? No problem! Rash says they’re built for it, and they’ve even operated in snowy Helsinki. Plus, they don’t do “batch” deliveries, so your food stays warm.
One customer, Kiley, was impressed with her delivery. She said the food was warmer than what she usually gets from human drivers. And the cost? Comparable to regular delivery, but without the tip.
So, while it might take a robot a while to deliver just one quesadilla, it seems like a fun and efficient way to get food in the city. Who knows? This could be the future of food delivery!
