April 3, 2024 – Kia Corporation and Hyundai Motor Company have just lifted the veil off their latest innovation in the field of autonomous indoor delivery services: the DAL-e Delivery robot. This state-of-the-art robot, which is an evolution of a model first introduced in December 2022, showcases a sleek new design coupled with cutting-edge technology aimed at transforming how we receive deliveries in offices, shopping malls, and other complex indoor environments.
The brains behind this robotic marvel, the Robotics Lab at Hyundai Motor and Kia, have pushed the envelope with the DAL-e Delivery, incorporating autonomous driving capabilities, face identification, and a design optimized for efficient navigation in crowded spaces. Dong Jin Hyun, the Vice President and Head of the Robotics Lab, shared their vision of integrating DAL-e Delivery’s services across various infrastructures to provide swift and reliable dispatch services for food, beverages, and parcels, ensuring customer satisfaction through timely deliveries.
What sets DAL-e Delivery apart is its foundation on four Plug & Drive (PnD) modules. These modules, a blend of motors, steering, suspension, brakes, and sensors, enable the robot to maneuver at speeds up to 1.2 meters per second, effortlessly dodging obstacles and cruising through tight spaces. Its enhanced suspension system guarantees a smooth ride, preserving the stability of up to 16 cups of coffee or items weighing as much as 10kg.
The robot’s design is as practical as it is aesthetically pleasing. Its square column shape with rounded corners and a low center of gravity ensures driving stability, while its sophisticated metallic look gives it a premium feel. Inside, an intuitive light system helps identify contents at a glance, and a forward-moving storage tray simplifies loading and unloading.
DAL-e Delivery’s highlight feature is its facial recognition technology, developed by Kia and Hyundai Motor’s Robotics Lab and certified by the Korea Internet and Security Agency for its 99.9% accuracy. This technology allows for seamless recipient identification, eliminating the need for manual input or passwords. Furthermore, the robot’s 11.6-inch display provides clear information on the service status and destination, enhancing user interaction with animated facial expressions for a more personable experience.
Kia and Hyundai Motor are gearing up to introduce DAL-e Delivery to IGIS Asset Management’s ‘Factorial Seongsu,’ a smart office building in Seoul set to open this April. This deployment marks a significant step towards commercializing robot-friendly environments and revolutionizing the efficiency of indoor delivery services. With DAL-e Delivery, Kia and Hyundai Motor are not just delivering goods—they’re delivering the future of autonomous indoor service.
