Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with drone maker Matternet on a van with drones on the roof. The drone will take care of the last few metres of the delivery. Efficient, because the courier does not have to get out and the drone needs a shorter range.
The electric Vision Van features a fully automated parcel system, which communicates where a parcel should be delivered. Through a hatch in the roof, the drone receives the package in question, which can weigh up to two kilos. The driver is signalled when to stop so that the drone can take off and deliver the parcel. This is done without human intervention.
Even when the van has already left, the drone can be sent after it to deliver a parcel. In fact, the Vision Van has a range of up to 270 kilometres. This functionality allows parcels to be delivered to consumers within the same day.
Mercedes Benz is currently investing millions in the development of the van with delivery drone. Earlier, it revealed that it will invest 500 million in digitalisation, automation and robotics over the next five years.
Editorial LogistiekProfs
