DoorDash, a global leader in local commerce, is taking a bold step forward in reshaping the landscape of last-mile delivery. The company has announced an expansion of its partnership with Coco Robotics, a leading player in robotic food delivery, to bring sidewalk robot deliveries to select U.S. cities. This collaboration builds upon a successful international pilot program run by Wolt—DoorDash’s European and global delivery platform—where Coco robots have already been actively delivering in Helsinki, Finland, since earlier this year.
Now, U.S. customers in Los Angeles and Chicago will be able to experience this innovative service firsthand. Eligible users can view the availability of Coco’s compact, emissions-free sidewalk robots directly in the DoorDash app. Nearly 600 participating merchants are part of the rollout, enabling customers to potentially receive their orders via robot courier. With this expansion, DoorDash continues to solidify its position as a forward-thinking logistics and technology company.
A Look Back: From Pilot to Expansion
Coco’s sidewalk robots first became part of DoorDash’s delivery ecosystem during a pilot program that saw over 100,000 successful robot deliveries to customers. This milestone not only demonstrated the operational reliability of Coco’s technology but also affirmed the growing consumer appetite for eco-friendly and tech-enhanced service. The robots, small autonomous units designed for short-range delivery, travel on sidewalks and can deliver items directly to a customer’s doorstep.
The success of this pilot paved the way for this larger deployment in two of the largest and most densely populated metropolitan areas in the U.S. With ongoing pressure to meet the rising demand for fast, reliable, and environmentally sustainable delivery services, DoorDash’s move to expand robot-powered delivery aligns with broader trends shaping the future of e-commerce and urban logistics.
DoorDash’s Vision: Multi-Modal Logistics for the Future
The expanded partnership with Coco is just one component of DoorDash’s multi-modal delivery strategy. The company envisions a future where deliveries are fulfilled using a variety of methods—traditional Dashers, autonomous sidewalk robots, drones, and other emerging technologies—depending on the needs of each specific order. This approach allows DoorDash to maximize efficiency, reduce delivery costs, and cut down on emissions associated with transportation.
“Not every delivery needs a 2-ton car just to deliver two chicken sandwiches,” said Harrison Shih, Senior Director at DoorDash Labs, the company’s robotics and automation research arm. “We believe the future of delivery will be multi-modal, and we’re thrilled to partner with Coco to expand sidewalk robot deliveries that complement the Dasher network as we continue to enhance the DoorDash experience for customers and merchants.”
Shih’s point underscores one of the key advantages of robotic delivery: efficiency at a lower environmental cost. Traditional delivery vehicles, while necessary for longer distances and large orders, can be overkill for quick, short-distance deliveries. By using lightweight, electric-powered robots, DoorDash can fulfill many orders in a way that’s both cost-effective and eco-conscious.
Coco’s Robotic Fleet: Clean, Efficient, and Growing
Founded in 2020, Coco Robotics has rapidly built a reputation for innovative, reliable sidewalk delivery. Their current fleet includes over 1,000 autonomous delivery robots, all designed to be emissions-free and optimized for urban environments. Coco’s robots are equipped with cameras, sensors, and AI-powered navigation systems that allow them to safely maneuver around pedestrians, traffic, and other obstacles in city environments.
“We’re excited to expand our partnership with DoorDash, combining Coco’s AI robocourier platform with DoorDash’s national scale and reach,” said Zach Rash, co-founder and CEO of Coco Robotics. “This collaboration marks an important step forward in reshaping urban delivery in the U.S., starting with Los Angeles and Chicago, to offer merchants and customers a reliable, sustainable, and delightful delivery experience.”
The robots typically operate within a fixed delivery radius and are ideal for densely packed neighborhoods or commercial zones with high delivery volume. They are already making a positive impression on both merchants and customers who value punctual, contactless, and futuristic delivery options.
The Merchant Perspective: Operational Gains and Customer Delight
Local restaurants and small businesses have embraced the technology as a way to increase operational efficiency, especially during peak hours. Eric Dela Cruz, the owner of Main Chick Hot Chicken in Los Angeles, praised the benefits of partnering with Coco and DoorDash.
“Partnering with Coco and DoorDash has allowed us to consistently deliver fresh food to our customers on time,” Dela Cruz said. “We worked with Coco to establish a ‘taxi line’ of robots so we can get food out to our customers faster, even during our busiest hours. The improved operational efficiency translates directly into happier guests and stronger repeat business. We’re excited about what this partnership means for our growth.”
This kind of operational streamlining is critical for restaurants competing in the fast-paced world of food delivery. For businesses like Main Chick, robot deliveries have provided a meaningful improvement in turnaround time and customer satisfaction.
The Broader Context: DoorDash Labs and the Future of Delivery
This strategic expansion is spearheaded by DoorDash Labs, the company’s innovation hub focused on building the future of delivery through robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence. In addition to its work with Coco, DoorDash Labs has invested in drone delivery solutions in collaboration with Wing, a project originally piloted in Australia and now operational in the U.S.
By building a robust logistics network that integrates people (Dashers), drones, and robots, DoorDash aims to offer the most effective fulfillment method for any given delivery scenario. This creates a more flexible and scalable logistics infrastructure that can adapt to demand surges, geographic challenges, and environmental considerations.
What’s Next?
As DoorDash and Coco expand robot delivery in Los Angeles and Chicago, there’s potential for further expansion into other major U.S. cities. The success of this model may pave the way for a new norm in urban delivery services—one that combines convenience, innovation, and environmental responsibility.
With continued investments in technology and strategic partnerships, DoorDash is positioning itself as a pioneer in autonomous last-mile delivery. Whether it’s your favorite burger or a quick coffee order, your next delivery might just arrive on six wheels instead of four.
To stay updated on the latest developments from DoorDash Labs and explore how the company is innovating delivery logistics, you can visit the official
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