France approves homologation for autonomous delivery robots

The French Ministry of Transport has introduced new regulations to allow the homologation of autonomous electric delivery robots. This regulatory shift aims to automate ‘last-mile’ logistics, which is often the most complex and costly stage of the delivery process.

Under the new decree, these compact, electric vehicles will be classified under category L, which includes light and heavy quadricycles. A notable aspect of the French model is that these robots are intended to operate on roadways rather than sidewalks, distinguishing them from similar experiments in other countries where small robots navigate pedestrian areas.

These autonomous vehicles will utilize a suite of sensors, including lidars, cameras, and radars, to navigate predefined routes. They are designed to transport goods between logistics centers, stores, or specific neighborhoods, with some models capable of carrying up to one tonne of cargo.