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Avride’s autonomous delivery robots began operations in Tokyo this week. The milestone marks the company’s first Japan deployment through a new partnership with e-commerce giant Rakuten.
The February 27 launch brings 10 pink and white robots to the streets of Harumi, Tsukishima, and Kachidoki districts. The robots serve over 90 delivery points and connect residents to FamilyMart convenience stores, Starbucks, Patisserie Hat bakery, and other shops. Each robot carries up to 25kg of goods at 6km/h, charging only 100 yen per delivery.
“We are thrilled to bring our technology to Japan for the first time,” said Toby Snuggs, Global Commercial Director at Avride. The robots completed extensive certification with Japan’s Robot Delivery Association in December 2024.
Avride’s robots feature distinct LED display panels that show animated expressions. Their advanced navigation systems are derived from the company’s own self-driving car technology. The robot’s weather-resistant design ensures consistent service during rain and at night.
Japan’s chronic labor shortage drives demand for autonomous delivery solutions. “We are witnessing increasing demand for reliable and convenient delivery solutions,” explained Hideaki Mukai, Executive Officer at Rakuten Group.
Rakuten tested the systems extensively before launch. The company upgraded its delivery management system to coordinate the 10-robot fleet and plans further expansion.
The Tokyo service builds on Avride’s existing operations in South Korea and the United States. The Austin-based startup maintains 100 robots at Ohio State University through Grubhub and serves Uber Eats customers in three American cities.
Avride emerged from Yandex’s self-driving division following a $5.2 billion corporate restructuring in 2024. The company now operates from Texas with research centers worldwide.
The deployment in Tokyo represents a strategic entry into Japan’s tech-forward market. Rakuten has previously tested other delivery robots, but the Avride partnership signals a shift toward permanent commercial service rather than limited pilots.
