Technologies are expected to displace hundreds of millions of truck deliveries and transform local commerce

A new report from Navigant Research analyzes the current level of deployment of delivery robots (bots), robotic delivery vehicles (RDVs), and drones, in addition to examining their viability for mainstream market adoption.

As a result of rising labor and fuel costs, along with concerns about increasing vehicle emissions, many logistics stakeholders are experimenting with emerging technologies to reduce driver miles and fuel usage. Click to tweet: According to a new @NavigantRSRCH report, bots, RDVs, and drones present a compelling opportunity to reduce carbon emissions, road congestion, and operational costs, while satisfying customer requirements for on-demand and hyperlocal delivery.

"Delivery bots, RDVs, and drones are set to displace millions of truck and van deliveries over the next decade, as they are far smaller, more flexible, lower in cost, and naturally suitable for automation and electrification," says Ryan Citron, senior research analyst at Navigant Research. "These technologies are expected to make last-mile logistics (LML) more efficient and sustainable, while also transforming local commerce and user experience through new business models such as on-demand store-hailing."

To position for success, Navigant Research recommends suppliers focus on addressing safety, consumer resistance, and privacy issues, in addition to finding creative solutions to extend the electric range of delivery bots and drones. Logistics companies should aggressively develop bot and drone programs to remain competitive, and governments should establish regulatory frameworks that support the growth of the bot and drone industries.

The report, Delivery Bots and Drones Could Revolutionize Last-Mile Logistics, analyzes the current level of deployment of delivery bots, RDVs, and drones; their viability for mainstream market adoption; and the anticipated impacts of these technologies on LML and the broader transportation and logistics industry. Navigant Research, a Guidehouse company, also provides detailed and actionable recommendations for suppliers to capitalize on the growth of these advanced logistics technologies. An executive summary of the report is available for free download on the Navigant Research website.

About Navigant Research

Navigant Research, the dedicated research arm of Guidehouse, provides market research and benchmarking services for rapidly changing and often highly regulated industries. In the energy sector, Navigant Research focuses on in-depth analysis and reporting about global clean technology markets. The team's research methodology combines supply-side industry analysis, end-user primary research and demand assessment, and deep examination of technology trends to provide a comprehensive view of clean, intelligent, mobile, and distributed energy. Additional information about Navigant Research can be found at www.navigantresearch.com.

About Guidehouse

Guidehouse is a leading global provider of consulting services to the public and commercial markets with broad capabilities in management, technology, and risk consulting. We help clients address their toughest challenges with a focus on markets and clients facing transformational change, technology-driven innovation and significant regulatory pressure. Across a range of advisory, consulting, outsourcing, and technology/analytics services, we help clients create scalable, innovative solutions that prepare them for future growth and success. Headquartered in Washington DC, the company has more than 7,000 professionals in more than 50 locations. Guidehouse is led by seasoned professionals with proven and diverse expertise in traditional and emerging technologies, markets and agenda-setting issues driving national and global economies. For more information, please visit: www.guidehouse.com.

* The information contained in this press release concerning the report, Delivery Bots and Drones Could Revolutionize Last-Mile Logistics, is a summary and reflects Navigant Research's current expectations based on market data and trend analysis. Market predictions and expectations are inherently uncertain and actual results may differ materially from those contained in this press release or the report. Please refer to the full report for a complete understanding of the assumptions underlying the report's conclusions and the methodologies used to create the report. Neither Navigant Research nor Guidehouse undertakes any obligation to update any of the information contained in this press release or the report.