Autonomous delivery robots have now begun operating in Sheffield after being launched by the collaboration of Starship Technologies and Uber Eats.
The six-wheeled robots have been spotted around Sheffield in the past few weeks during testing, ahead of the official launch, delivering food from local businesses.
Jonathan Vernon, a spokesperson for Starship, said the company had been working with local takeaway businesses to introduce the service; with plans to increase coverage depending on demand.
He said: “The service will scale up over time, in line with demand,” he said. “Sheffield is one of the most forward-looking and creative cities in the North, making it a natural next step for expansion.”
The robots form part of a wider expansion with the aim of autonomous delivery all over the UK, as Starship has formed partnerships with companies including Just Eat and the Co-op alongside Uber Eats.
The company says the technology offers a low-emission alternative to short car journeys, which contribute to urban congestion and pollution.
Prysm Global has estimated that an economic boost of £1.3 billion could be generated in the UK and would create more than 500 jobs. It is also predicted that Sheffield alone will generate £8.3 million.
The technology has been well-received by many residents. One student at the University of Sheffield said the robots were “a convenient and interesting way to get food,” and that they would be more likely to use delivery services if costs remained low.
Many students have not been afraid to voice their disagreement with the growing use of automated systems such as AI, removing many job opportunities.
However, many residents of Sheffield have raised concerns about how these robots would operate, particularly in busy public areas. A local said that she was unsure “how safe I will be on crowded pavements” especially in the city centre during busy hours.
According to Starship, their robots are designed to operate safely alongside pedestrians having already completed millions of deliveries worldwide.
Uber Eats and Starship have announced a nationwide competition to mark the Sheffield launch, with a £3,000 prize, inviting the public to create a short melody which would be played by the robots during deliveries.
