SAN ANTONIO — In the age of technology, H-E-B will launch a pilot program that delivers items from a vehicle that drives itself.
The Texas chain will use one autonomous van with driverless technology, delivering near its Olmos Park H-E-B.
“Our success starts with our people, who provide exceptional hospitality and drive us to open more engaging stores that offer a world-class shopping experience,” said Craig Boyan, H-E-B President.
The vehicle is made by Udelv, a California-based company that creates autonomous delivery vehicles.
Because the program is new, the company will have a driver behind the wheel during the first phase of the launch.
If the initiative expands, the next phase will begin, allowing the vehicles to become fully driverless.
“At H-E-B, we continue to evaluate and utilize innovative technologies in all parts of our business,” said Paul Tepfenhart, Senior Vice President of Omnichannel and Emerging Technologies at Central Market and H-E-B.
H-E-B is no stranger to digital technology considering its Curbside, Home-Delivery and Go service which allows people to pay using their phones.
San Antonio District 1 council member Roberto Treviño provided the following statement:
“I applaud H-E-B for implementing a forward-thinking delivery service that will better serve customers, especially those who are mobility-impaired, while streamlining operations and reducing costs. Self-driving vehicles will be at the forefront of transportation in the foreseeable future, so it is exciting that District 1 residents will be among the first in Texas to test out this new service.
The Center City is the intersection where innovation meets the needs of a diverse community, which is why I requested District 1 be included in the Innovation Zones program last June. I look forward to the program and for other services inspired by this technology.”