Communications of the ACM
NYC Tells FedEx to Get Their Delivery Robots ‘Off Our Streets’
New York City on Monday warned FedEx to stop using its delivery robots there.
Credit: New York Post
Hasta la vista, robot.
New York City on Monday warned FedEx to 'terminate' any operation of its delivery robots in the Big Apple, after a fleet of the androids were spotted rolling around lower Manhattan last week.
"You are hereby directed to immediately cease and desist operating your SameDay Bots on the streets and sidewalks in the City of New York," lawyers for the Dept. of Transportation wrote to FedEx, in a letter obtained by The Post.
"Failure to do so may result in the seizure of the property, notices of violation and/or the commencement of legal action."
Several of the company's SameDay Bots — also known as Roxos — prowled around Crosby Street near Houston Street last week as part of a promotion, startling New Yorkers.
The delivery machines, which are still being tested, use artificial intelligence, motion sensors and stair-climbing wheels to travel on sidewalks and along roads.
But having them roam SoHo streets is illegal — the DOT argued, citing provisions of vehicle and traffic law, including one that bans motor vehicles from the sidewalks.
From New York Post
View Full Article
No entries found