Serve Robotics has marked a significant milestone in autonomous delivery, successfully completing one of the first-ever deliveries at Level 4 autonomy. This achievement signifies a major leap forward for Serve Robots, demonstrating their capability to navigate designated areas entirely on their own. This advancement is underpinned by a comprehensive suite of technologies designed to prioritize safety, incorporating multiple layers of redundant systems for crucial navigation functions. These systems include a diverse range of sensors – active sensors like lidar and ultrasonics, and passive sensors such as cameras – enabling serve robots to operate safely on busy city sidewalks.
The journey to Level 4 autonomy for Serve Robotics involved the development of cutting-edge capabilities, including automatic emergency braking, vehicle collision avoidance, and fail-safe mechanical braking. These features are critical for ensuring the safe and reliable operation of serve robots in real-world environments.
[Image Placeholder with Alt Text: Serve robot navigating a city sidewalk, showcasing its compact design and sensor suite.]
“I am incredibly proud of Serve Robotics for reaching Level 4 autonomy,” stated Dr. Ali Kashani, co-founder and CEO of Serve Robotics. “This advancement significantly enhances public safety by minimizing the potential for human error and truly begins to unlock the transformative potential of robotic delivery. This technical and commercial milestone is a testament to the entire autonomous vehicle industry and propels our mission to make delivery more accessible and sustainable through serve robots.”
Serve Robotics’ technical breakthrough was facilitated through collaboration with key technology partners, NVIDIA and Ouster. The NVIDIA Jetson platform, specifically engineered for robots and autonomous machines, provides the essential AI computing power that allows serve robots to interpret their complex surroundings in real-time. Ouster’s lidar sensors contribute to the serve robots‘ self-driving capabilities with their compact, lightweight, and energy-efficient sensing technology.
[Image Placeholder with Alt Text: Close-up of a Serve robot’s sensor array, highlighting the lidar and camera components.]
Murali Gopalakrishna, Head of Product Management, Autonomous Machines and GM for Robotics at NVIDIA, commented, “Serve Robotics’ accomplishment is a real breakthrough for the commercial deployment of autonomous vehicle technology in sidewalk delivery. We are excited to see Serve continue to leverage the NVIDIA Jetson edge AI and Isaac robotics platforms to further extend their technological leadership in the serve robots space.”
Angus Pacala, CEO of Ouster, added, “Serve Robotics has achieved a major milestone for both the autonomous vehicle industry and the future of sidewalk delivery with serve robots. Ouster is thrilled to be Serve’s partner as they continue to expand and bring lidar-powered Level 4 autonomy to doorsteps across the U.S.”
Serve Robotics has already completed tens of thousands of deliveries in Los Angeles. With this achievement, their next-generation fleet of serve robots is poised to power the company’s expansion into new locations, rolling out delivery services for Uber Eats and other partners throughout 2022 and beyond. This expansion promises to bring the efficiency and sustainability of serve robots to a wider audience.
About Serve Robotics
Serve Robotics is at the forefront of shaping the future of sustainable, self-driving delivery with serve robots. The company specializes in designing, developing, and operating zero-emission robots that are designed to serve people in public spaces, initially focusing on revolutionizing food delivery. Founded in 2017 as the robotics division of Postmates, Serve Robotics was established with the goal of creating a robotic delivery experience that delights customers, enhances reliability for merchants, and eliminates vehicle emissions. Over the past five years, Serve’s autonomous robots have successfully completed tens of thousands of contactless deliveries in both Los Angeles and San Francisco. Since becoming an independent company in February 2021, Serve has garnered backing from prominent investors including Uber, 7-Eleven, and Delivery Hero’s corporate venture units. Serve has established multiple commercial partnerships and is actively expanding its partner platform. To learn more, visit www.serverobotics.com, and connect with Serve Robotics on social media via Twitter and Instagram, or explore career opportunities on LinkedIn.
