Domino’s and Ford are joining forces to test self-driving pizza delivery vehicles in Michigan as part of an effort to understand the role the self-driving vehicles can play in pizza delivery.
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As part of the initial testing, a team of researchers representing both companies will examine fan reactions to interacting with a self-driving vehicle as a part of their delivery experience.
Over the next several weeks, randomly selected Domino’s fans in Ann Arbor, Michigan will be offered the option to receive pizza deliveries from a Ford Fusion Hybrid autonomous research vehicle.
During the testing, each car will be piloted by Ford safety engineer, with other researchers onboard – who will dissect the last 50 feet of the fan experience.
Fans who agree to participate will be able to track the delivery vehicle through GPS using an upgraded version of Domino’s Tracker. As the delivery vehicle approaches, they will also receive text messages with instructions on how to retrieve their pizza using a unique code to unlock the Domino’s Heatwave Compartment inside the vehicle.
“We’re interested to learn what people think about this type of delivery,” said Russell Weiner, president of Domino’s USA.
“The majority of our questions are about the last 50 feet of the delivery experience. For instance, how will customers react to coming outside to get their food? We need to make sure the interface is clear and simple,” Weiner added.
Ford plans to begin the production of self-driving vehicles in 2021.
Image – Domino’s/Ford