Autonomous Underground Robot Delivery System Launches

Peachtree Corners has opened what it says is the world’s first below-ground autonomous robot delivery system, delivering food and goods to consumers in a bid to “eliminate emissions and congestion issues that plague current delivery infrastructure.”

Created in partnership with underground logistics network Pipedream, the system spans almost 1 mile and connects a shopping center to Curiosity Lab’s 25,000-square-foot smart city innovation center. 

Through the system, Curiosity Lab members will be able to order food and convenience items from several select restaurants and stores on demand. 

By using the underground, robotic system, the partners said the city can reduce emissions and traffic congestion and noise pollution, as well as enable cheaper, faster delivery of goods.

“By bringing the delivery system underground and directly to the customer, Pipedream is showcasing the future of logistics technology that will not only bring added convenience to our residents and businesses but also reduce traffic, noise and emissions from delivery vehicles on our roads,” said Brandon Branham, CTO of Peachtree Corners. “We are proud to be the first city in the world to implement and utilize Pipedream’s technology – leveraging its potential to transform logistics as we know it while delivering real commercial benefits and quality of life improvements in our community.

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“The autonomous robot delivery system in Peachtree Corners is a continuation of what we’ve been able to achieve as an integrated smart city, utilizing smart infrastructure and the more innovative new technology to create a more sustainable, efficient and equitable community for all.”

“Pipedream is about embracing innovation to put the needs of communities first, with this first real-world installation we have proven that underground delivery is not only possible today but easy to retrofit,” said Garrett McCurrach, Pipedream’s CEO. “Underground delivery feels like something just teleported into your living room, and thanks to the leadership of Peachtree Corners in pushing forward and implementing smart city world-first technologies and infrastructure, this is a reality today. 

“We’re excited for people to experience that here at the Curiosity Lab and are planning to bring it to many more cities over the next couple of years.”