Lidl has revealed plans to revolutionize its store delivery operations with the introduction of autonomous electric trucks. The German supermarket chain has begun using a cab-less truck, which operates at level four autonomy under a permit from Germany's Federal Motor Transport Authority.
The Einride-branded vehicle was supplied by the Swedish freight technology company and is assigned a daily replenishment route between Lidl's Edermünde distribution centre and a nearby store. According to sources, the truck will operate for regular deliveries in the region with minimal human intervention required.
Lidl has chosen Einride for its autonomous truck due to its expertise in electric vehicle technology and its experience with high-volume logistics operations. The company aims to integrate the autonomous trucks into its existing delivery network as part of a wider effort to improve efficiency and reduce costs.