Exactly the same as when tested in the city centre, moving around without being pushed or towed through pedestrian streets, sidewalks and zebra crossings.
Laden with detectors, capable of carrying up to 150 kg of parcels and/or letters, this autonomous trolley follows the postman docilely during his tour, circumventing obstacles and passers-by with care, stopping when the postman stops, and leaving with him again.
Initially subjected to drastic safety tests on a test bench, it was then tested in three cities, over five rounds, with five different mailmen, and always in the presence of an ergonomist, to advise the mailman, observe her behaviour, and note potential improvements in equipment.
The following trolley has only qualities. For postmen, it is very easy to use, reduces physical effort, and allows you to take a whole tour in one go. For the urban environment, it is equipped with an electric battery, does not produce any exhaust fumes or noise and, unlike an electric Kangoo, it does not obstruct roadways and can circulate freely in pedestrian streets. For all these reasons, La Poste is considering it as a solution for the future in terms of delivery in the city centre.
The following trolley was tested twice in Nantes and twice in Rueil-Malmaison on a parcel/mail tour. It has also been tested in the 4th arrondissement of Paris on a tour exclusively dedicated to parcels, in a larger capacity version (see photos). The video below provides an overview of the first test carried out in the streets of Nantes.
Source: Le Groupe La Poste