Amazon will be adding new AI-powered package retrieval technology to its EV fleet, the company has recently announced. The vision-based tech is designed to help drivers prioritize packages.
Notably, Vision-Assisted Package Retrieval (VAPR) highlights packages with either a green circle or red light, denoting which are designated for delivery at the current stop.
Amazon adds that this technology will prevent drivers from having to stop and search for the relevant packages each time. Moreover, an audio clue also alerts drivers whether or not they have selected the right items.
The company highlights that this system will eliminate the need for handheld devices commonly used by delivery drivers.
According to Amazon, the VAPR system has been in development since early 2020. We had to think about factors that are unique to the delivery experience, such as lighting and space constraints inside vans,” product manager John Colucci said.
The system will be implemented in 1,000 of Amazon's electric Rivian vans by early 2025.