The delivery robot metro initiative is transforming logistics in Shenzhen. This week, the city launched the world’s first autonomous subway-based delivery service. A cartoon-themed robot successfully boarded and navigated Metro Line 2 without human help. Eventually, it completed its mission by delivering goods to a 7-Eleven store.
Importantly, this delivery robot metro test marks a new milestone in smart logistics. The project is a joint effort between Shenzhen Metro Group and VX Logistics. VX Logistics operates under Vanke Group, a leading real estate and property company. Together, they aim to integrate AI and robotics into the urban transportation network.
In particular, the robots use multi-sensor navigation and AI scheduling systems. As a result, these systems allow them to plan delivery routes, board trains independently, and avoid pedestrians. According to project leaders, this effort is still in the testing phase and will be refined with operational feedback.
For example, store manager Li Yanyan from 7-Eleven’s Wanxia Station branch highlighted the benefits. In the past, stores relied on ground transport, facing delays and parking issues. Therefore, she believes robot deliveries will lower costs and improve efficiency.
Currently, 7-Eleven operates over 100 outlets in Shenzhen’s metro network. These stores serve nearly 9 million commuters daily. However, delivery challenges during peak hours have slowed service. To solve this, the logistics company plans to deploy about 41 robots to meet daily demand.
Consequently, officials view the pilot as part of Shenzhen’s smart city strategy. The city has launched a 2025-2027 action plan for intelligent robot development. Furthermore, Shenzhen also designated itself as a test zone for smart technology.
Meanwhile, VX Logistics official Hou Shangjie emphasized the system’s flexibility. The robots are equipped with AI algorithms and mechanical systems. Specifically, their intelligent scheduling system plans routes based on order volume, timing, and metro availability. These features allow efficient service across multiple metro stations.
Over time, as performance data is collected, the robots will continue to improve. This delivery robot metro project is part of Shenzhen’s broader ambition. Ultimately, the city hopes to reduce road congestion, improve urban delivery, and advance green development.
Overall, Shenzhen is already a global hub for robotics, with over 1,600 companies in the field. Now, its efforts in automation extend beyond factories to everyday city life. Undoubtedly, this project shows how technology can reshape transportation and logistics in modern cities.
