Nuro and Houston METRO partner on a research pilot exploring the benefits of autonomous delivery service for paratransit customers.
At the height of COVID-19, Houstonians struggled to secure essential goods while trying to minimize their contact with others. Contactless goods delivery has become a critical way that people get their items, and it is especially valuable for those who cannot conveniently drive to the grocery store, including many of Houston’s 215,000 residents with disabilities. We saw this as a perfect opportunity to fulfill our goal of providing autonomous delivery services in order to promote equitable access for all.
Earlier this year, we launched a research pilot with Houston METRO (Houston’s public transportation authority) and Kroger to offer free delivery of groceries to paratransit customers in our service area. The paratransit program services people with disabilities who are unable to board, ride, or disembark from a METRO fixed-route bus.
“Public-private partnerships are critically important when it comes to reaching underserved and underrepresented communities. People with disabilities do not always have transportation and shouldn’t have to rely on someone to help with everyday tasks like grocery shopping. Nuro’s pilot program is filling that gap and letting disabled Houstonians live more independently. I am impressed by the company’s commitment, and I thank Nuro for working to ensure that no Houstonian is left behind.
- Houston Mayor, Sylvester Turner
Our aim is to learn how a delivery service powered by autonomous vehicles could benefit people with disabilities, providing another option in addition to METROLift’s scheduled ride program. As an alternative to reserving two rides — to the grocery store and back — customers can choose to place a quick online order and have fresh groceries delivered to their home.
We know this pilot will provide valuable insights as we continue scaling our delivery service. We believe that nobody should be left behind as autonomous vehicle technology advances, improving the safety of our roads, the safety for those limited in their personal mobility, and increasing access for all.
That’s why we have considered people with disabilities in the design of our custom vehicle, R2. We ergonomically designed the goods compartments to reduce the upper body strength and bending required for lifting and placing grocery bags, and ensured that wheelchair users are able to reach the touchscreen. We look forward to continuing to improve accessibility for people with physical, sensory, and/or cognitive disabilities in future generations of our vehicle.
To identify key learnings throughout the pilot, we’ve also partnered with the industry-leading researchers at Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI). During initial outreach, 40% of respondents expressed interest in participating in the program as a way to get fresh, healthy food options through a convenient and affordable service. Respondents also mentioned their interest in having a delivery service provide for their needs compared to potential hassles of physically going to their desired grocery store.
Asthe research pilot is underway, we are asking for the community to provide feedback on the use of autonomous vehicles for delivery services. Working with Mayor Sylvester Turner, the Houston Office of Innovation, the Office for People with Disabilities, and other community groups, we are encouraging Houston residents to complete a short survey on their needs and how autonomous delivery services can help.
Click here to complete the 5-minute survey.
We look forward to continuing to learn from our neighbors and expanding access to affordable delivery service.
