EVs, robots and lockers cut parcel delivery costs by 53%: Study

A study led by Concordia University presents an innovative hybrid parcel delivery system that combines electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous delivery robots, and self-service parcel lockers to significantly reduce last-mile delivery costs and emissions. This model targets priority customers, such as Amazon Prime members, by using EVs for main route deliveries and deploying robots for short-distance deliveries in areas inaccessible to vehicles. Parcels can also be dropped off at strategically located lockers near homes, offices, or transit hubs for convenient customer pickup. The robots return to the delivery van—acting as a “mothership”—for battery swaps and reloading, enabling continuous operation. The researchers developed a customized optimization algorithm that demonstrated a 53% reduction in vehicle usage costs compared to traditional EV-only delivery methods, outperforming existing industry tools in large-scale simulations. The system prioritizes fast delivery for paid subscribers while offering standard delivery options for other customers, with advanced mathematical models determining optimal routes, locker placements, and delivery assignments. This approach not only enhances delivery