Autonomous cargo bikes could make last-mile delivery more efficient

In the scenario imagined by the researchers, the delivery driver walks alongside an autonomous cargo bike to deliver their parcels. — Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg

In Germany, an initiative is underway to make certain cargo bikes dedicated to delivery operate autonomously. The idea is to make life easier for delivery personnel by letting them distribute parcels on foot while their vehicle follows in complete safety.

A team of researchers at the Otto von Guericke University in Magdeburg, Germany, has developed an autonomous driving technology specially adapted to electric cargo bikes produced by Berlin-based firm Ono. The aim of the Eaasy System project, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, is to equip these bikes with automated driving functions for local, last-mile deliveries.