Amazon has showed off a new prototype drone it hopes to use to deliver small packages to customers in fewer than 30 minutes. Unlike a previous demonstration offered by Amazon that showed packages being carried below the drone, the new video shows the prototype accepting a package into its fuselage before delivery.
Part of a “family” of drones, the “hybrid” drone is shown in the video taking off vertically like a helicopter and then switching to a more airplane-like flight. Using “sense and avoid” technology, the drone can avoid potential obstacles in the air and on the ground for a range of 15 miles, Amazon said.
Presented by former Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson (who is working on a show for Amazon), the two-minute video takes us through the entire process, from ordering, to warehouse launch, to delivery. “In time there will be a whole family of Amazon drones, different designs for different environments,” says Jeremy Clarkson.
The new drone looks a lot different from the one Amazon showed us a couple of years ago. This one has a more commercial and streamlined look, and instead of showing the package hanging in open air, the new drone hides the item in a square compartment.
Amazon is working with regulators and policymaker to make the delivery service a reality as soon as possible, an Amazon spokeswoman said Sunday evening.
“We will deploy when and where we have the regulatory support needed to safely realize our vision,” Kristen Kish said.
Source: Press Release
Great start