FedEx and Neolix Collaborate in Test of Autonomous Delivery Vehicle in China

FedEx Express is collaborating with autonomous technology company Neolix to test an autonomous delivery vehicle in China.

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This is the first time in its operations in China that FedEx has partnered with a local Chinese technology company to test the use of a driverless vehicle.

As part of its strategy to embrace intelligent and sustainable logistics in China, this is the latest effort by FedEx to utilize technological innovation to advance the use of autonomous vehicles.

The unmanned delivery vehicle is zero-emission, all-electric with L4 level autonomous technology which means it:

• Incorporates vehicle self-driving tech with internet and intelligent cargo box tech, allowing for AI intelligent dispatching, all-round monitoring, and cloud-based management.
• Offers multiple safety features with a maximum cargo capacity of approximately 500 kg and a range of 100 km on a full charge.
• Is equipped with a technical system that can handle complex road conditions and traffic light recognition during the delivery process.
• Supports driving in sunny, foggy, light rain, night and other conditions.

In addition, the cargo box of the autonomous vehicle can be converted into a temperature-controlled compartment and a smart parcel locker.

“FedEx Express is committed to developing and leveraging technologies that will help transform the logistics industry, enhance customer experience and reduce the environmental impact of our business operations. The rapid growth of eCommerce requires more flexible and efficient digital logistics solutions to solve the ‘last-mile’ delivery challenges. Our collaboration with Neolix will help us further understand the role of autonomous vehicle technology in enhancing operational flexibility and diversity, which is our latest initiative to support sustainable and intelligent logistics.”

Eddy Chan, senior vice president and president, FedEx China

FedEx and Neolix began testing the autonomous vehicle in October around Beijing.

During the testing phase, both companies will test operational applications in a variety of scenarios, including delivery to a campus, an office building, and a station over various time periods, as well as request feedback from customers.

In November, the autonomous vehicle will be displayed at the China International Import Expo. Its advanced features, operations, and convenient applications will be on display for visitors to experience firsthand.

“Our collaboration with FedEx is not only in line with market development trends, but also an innovative attempt for Neolix to explore the impact on the logistics sector in addition to the retail sector. We hope to support the transformation and development of the logistics industry by utilizing the intelligent advantages of autonomous vehicles.”

Enyuan Yu, CEO, Neolix

FedEx Drives Innovation in Automation and Robotics Technology

FedEx has explored and developed new technologies, including automation and robotics, in its operations and services throughout the world.

In April, to advance the “last-mile” of package delivery, FedEx worked with robotics company Nuro, to test and use Nuro’s next-generation delivery robot in the US.

Later in July, Roxo, the FedEx SameDay Bot, an autonomous delivery device developed by FedEx in collaboration with DEKA Development Research, landed in Japan.

And in September, FedEx announced a collaboration with the self-driving startup Aurora and heavy-duty vehicle manufacturer Paccar to test autonomous trucks in the US.