---
title: "FedEx Sees Robots, Not Drones, As the Next Big Thing in Logistics"
description: "FedEx chief information officer Rob Carter thinks robots are less risky, more familiar."
date: "2017-02-07"
modified: "2017-02-07"
authors:
  - name: "Liane Yvkoff"
    link: "https://www.thedrive.com/authors/liane-yvkoff"
url: "https://www.thedrive.com/tech/7430/fedex-sees-robots-not-drones-as-the-next-big-thing-in-logistics"
categories:
  - "News"
tags:
  - "Autonomous Cars"
  - "Daimler"
  - "Drones"
  - "FedEx"
  - "Matternet"
  - "robots"
---

# FedEx Sees Robots, Not Drones, As the Next Big Thing in Logistics

![](<https://www.thedrive.com/wp-content/uploads/images-by-url-td/content/2017/02/gettyimages-5208260102-e1486486943914.jpg>)
*\<em\>www.thedrive.com</em>*

Logistics is multi-trillion-dollar global business, and FedEx is investing in autonomous technology to grow its market share—currently at a staggering [22 percent of the global package delivery market](<https://www.businessinsider.com/fedex-just-scored-a-major-victory-against-ups-2015-4>). However, unlike competitors [UPS](<https://pressroom.ups.com/pressroom/ContentDetailsViewer.page?ConceptType=PressReleases&id=1474568757660-815>) and [Amazon](<https://www.thedrive.com/tech/6929/amazon-wants-to-build-a-freakin-mega-drone>), both of which are turning towards the sky for next-generation delivery solutions, FedEx is betting on ground vehicles rather than drones to streamline, automate, and expedite the supply-chain industry.

## Autonomous Vans More Feasible Than Drones

FedEx chief information officer Rob Carter thinks that autonomous vehicles make more sense than an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) for automated deliveries, [according to MIT Technology Review](<https://www.technologyreview.com/s/602896/fedex-bets-on-automation-as-it-prepares-to-fend-off-uber-and-amazon/>). Rolling vehicles like vans or robots are more energy-efficient than levitating drones, which, as he noted to the publication, typically have a maximum cargo carrying limit of five pounds and a 50-mile flight range. Another advantage over drones is that ground transportation doesn't have to contend with [Federal Aviation Administration regulators to gain approval for flight paths](<https://www.thedrive.com/news/6645/in-2016-flirtey-made-drone-deliveries-in-the-u-s-a-reality>). FAA-approved flight paths require companies to maintain a clear line of sight with their UAVs, and avoid flying over busy streets or pedestrians, which rules out operation in most dense urban centers.

Rather, autonomous vehicles offer FedEx a clearer and less risky roadmap towards increased profits. To start, it's partnering with startup [Peloton Technology](<https://peloton-tech.com/>) to test self-driving tractor-trailer platoons. Peloton's platoons follow a lead vehicle that uses vehicle-to-vehicle communication technology to control the drive systems of the trucks in its caravan, which reduces wind resistance and, therefore, fuel costs.

## A Hybrid Approach May Work

FedEx is also partnering with Volvo Trucks, Freightliner, and Daimler to explore emerging technology, according to the article. Daimler has made an investment in logistics start-up Matternet, and together they're collaborating on a logistics service that uses [autonomous vans as mobile launch pads for drones](<https://www.thedrive.com/news/6840/mercedes-benzs-ces-concept-turns-delivery-vans-into-mobile-drone-launchers>). The proposed solution would use Daimler's driverless vans to navigate to designated delivery areas for commercial customers, plus launch drones from their roofs to deliver packages to Matternet's pre-registered landing pads.

That's the type of autonomous technology that could work for Carter, who thinks fixed-wing drones that travel set distances from specific departure- and receiving points could be feasible for commercial deliveries. But overall, the executive favors [rolling couriers to flying ones](<https://www.thedrive.com/news/7009/door-to-door-robot-delivery-is-now-a-reality-in-the-united-states>), and argues that they provides the most seamless experience for customers who are already used to delivery drivers and postal workers dropping off packages.

**Source**: [*MIT Technology Review*](<https://www.technologyreview.com/s/602896/fedex-bets-on-automation-as-it-prepares-to-fend-off-uber-and-amazon/>)

### Author social links