Japan rolls out 'humble and lovable' delivery robots
From April, revised traffic laws will allow self-driving delivery robots to navigate streets across Japan.
Proponents hope the machines could eventually help elderly people in depopulated rural areas get access to goods, while also addressing a shortage of delivery workers in a country with chronic labor shortages.
There are challenges to overcome, including safety concerns, said Hisashi Taniguchi, president of Tokyo-based robotics firm ZMP.
“They are still newcomers in human society, so it’s natural they’re seen with a bit of discomfort,” he said.
The robots won’t be operating entirely alone, with humans monitoring remotely and able to intervene.
Taniguchi said it’s important the machines “are humble and lovable” to inspire confidence.
ZMP has partnered with behemoths such as Japan Post Holdings in its trials of delivery robots in Tokyo. Its Deliro robot aims for a charming look, featuring big, expressive eyes that can be made teary in sadness if pedestrians block its way.
“Every kid around here knows its name,” Taniguchi said.
“Excuse me, coming through,” a fourwheeled robot chirps as it dodges pedestrians on a street outside Tokyo, part of an experiment businesses hope will tackle labor shortages and rural isolation.
‘How about some hot drinks?’
There is a serious purpose behind the cuteness. Japan has one of the world’s oldest populations, with nearly 30% of its citizens over age 65. Many live in depopulated rural areas that lack easy access to daily necessities.
Labor shortages in its cities and new rules limiting overtime for truck drivers also make it difficult for businesses to keep up with pandemic-fueled e-commerce and delivery demands.
“The shortage of workers in transport will be a challenge in the future,” said engineer Dai Fujikawa of electronics giant Panasonic, which is trialing delivery robots in Tokyo and Fujisawa, in Kanagawa Prefecture.
“I hope our robots will be used to take over where needed and help ease the labor crunch,” he said.