Autonomous Food - Vending Car Tested In Japan
A self-driving car selling food and drinks is undergoing trials on roads near Tokyo. The aim is to see if the unmanned service provides convenience to communities and helps retailers cope with a labor shortage.
A telecom-services subsidiary of Japanese electronics firm Kyocera has teamed up with major retailer Aeon and the city of Chiba for the project.
The vehicle travels to pre-programmed locations such as a condominium building or an elderly-care facility.
Customers can select items on a touchscreen, and pay for them with their smartphones using QR codes.
A spokesman for the developers says people in many communities face difficulty doing shopping or having things delivered.
He says once they confirm that there is demand for unmanned food-vending cars, they will come up with more ideas to enhance the service.