Autonomous Delivery Robots for Urban Last-mile Logistics Operations: a modified UTAUT framework

Abstract

Interest in autonomous deliveries among logistics service providers (LSP) is growing. This is due to pressure regarding emission reduction regulations, driving bans inside cities, and growing service demands. Autonomous Delivery Robots (ADR) can form a solution and help to optimize current logistics operations. This work investigates factors that might influence the behavioural intention to use ADR. Focus is on decision-makers of LSP. Data was collected through an online survey. The questionnaire is based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). Results provide insights concerning factors shaping the acceptance of ADR for last-mile logistics operations. The factors performance expectancy, facilitating conditions, experience, trust, and perceived risk were found to affect the behavioural intention.