Hyundai, Kia Unveil New Coffee Delivery Robot 'DAL-e'

Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai Motor) and Kia Corporation (Kia) have revealed the updated version of their DAL-e Delivery robot, aiming to enhance delivery efficiency, especially in intricate settings like offices and shopping centers.

This new iteration of the delivery robot builds upon the previous model introduced in December 2022, incorporating advancements in design and performance based on insights gathered from earlier conveyance projects conducted by Hyundai Motor and Kia.

The DAL-e Delivery

According to Dong Jin Hyun, Vice President and Head of the Robotics Lab at Hyundai Motor and Kia, the DAL-e Delivery is engineered to offer swift and reliable delivery services for food and parcels, ensuring timely delivery to customers across various settings, including offices, restaurants, and malls.

"DAL-e Delivery offers efficient and reliable F&B and parcel dispatch services to ensure customers receive goods promptly," Dong Jin Hyun said in a press release statement.

"Our vision extends to implementing infrastructure interworking across diverse spaces, including offices, restaurants and shopping malls."

To optimize stability during operation, the DAL-e Delivery features a square column design with rounded corners, placing the center of gravity at the bottom for enhanced balance.

Discreetly integrated sensors contribute to its sleek, premium aesthetic, while the use of sophisticated metal-like materials adds to its visual appeal.

Equipped with four Plug & Drive (PnD) modules, the DAL-e Delivery utilizes advanced mobility solutions combining motors with steering, suspension, braking systems, and environmental recognition sensors.

It boasts a maximum speed of 1.2 m/s, facilitated by the free-moving PnD modules and cutting-edge autonomous driving technology, enabling it to identify obstacles and navigate congested areas efficiently.

Additionally, according to Hyundai, the robot's improved suspension system ensures a smooth ride over uneven surfaces, ensuring stable delivery operations.

DAL-e's Introduction in 2021

The DAL-e Delivery's introduction follows Hyundai's previous unveiling of the DAL-e in 2021, which was designed to revolutionize automated customer services.

Equipped with state-of-the-art artificial intelligence technology for facial recognition and language comprehension, the DAL-e aimed to offer personalized and intimate customer interactions.

With a humanoid body measuring 1,160 x 600 x 600 mm and weighing 80kg, the DAL-e presented a lighter and more compact alternative to conventional customer service robots.

Regarding mobility, Hyundai claims that the DAL-e exhibits omnidirectional movement capabilities, enabling it to smoothly escort customers to designated areas. It also engaged customers by explaining products and technologies and offering opportunities for interactive experiences such as photo sessions.

"With continuous updates and improvements, the DAL-e will provide fresh, pleasant experiences to our valued customers in a contact-free environment. Our objective is to enable the DAL-e to engage in a smooth and entertaining communication with customers and present valuable services to them," Dong Jin Hyun said in a statement.