Albertsons Companies has partnered with Tortoise, an automated logistics company focused on last-mile solutions, to pilot its remote-controlled zero-emission delivery cart in Northern California.
The Safeway cart, powered by Tortoise, is equipped with a camera and a speaker and is guided through the neighborhood by a remote operator. The cart can hold up to 120 pounds of groceries in four lockable containers for a contactless delivery experience.
“Our team is obsessed with trying new and disruptive technologies that can bring more convenience for our customers,” said Chris Rupp, EVP, and Chief Customer and Digital Officer. “We are willing to quickly test, learn, and implement winning innovations that ensure we are offering the easiest and most convenient shopping experience in the entire industry.”
When the cart arrives at a home, the customer receives a text to come outside and pick up their groceries. The carts are specifically designed to deliver groceries and parcels safely – at an average speed of 3 mph and powered 100% by an electric battery.
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Currently, the service is open for testing with Safeway associates in select Northern California neighborhoods. In these early stages, a friendly escort will accompany the cart as part of the pilot process.
Albertsons Cos. continues to bring innovation and disruption to its growing e-Commerce business to make the shopping experience more convenient for customers. The company recently announced that it is piloting pickup lockers and an automated pickup kiosk at select Jewel-Osco locations in Chicago. The company already offers delivery and Drive Up & Go options through its websites and apps. Albertsons is also expanding its relationships with third-party operators to provide delivery options in as fast as two hours.
Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Mountain View, CA, Tortoise automates logistics for light electric vehicles like delivery bots & shared scooters, including their first-of-its-kind remote-controlled grocery & parcel delivery bot, the Tortoise Cart.