DoorDash Unveils Dot Delivery Robot as Amazon Expands Prime Air Drones

Food delivery is getting a major automation upgrade. DoorDash has officially unveiled its new autonomous delivery robot, named Dot. The announcement comes as rival Amazon expands its Prime Air drone delivery operations. Both moves signal a significant shift in how goods will reach doorsteps.

DoorDash confirmed the robot’s development and initial testing phase. TechCrunch reported the official unveiling occurred on September 30, 2025. The company plans to scale the technology in key markets soon.

How Dot Works and Where It’s Rolling Out

Dot is an electric, self-driving delivery vehicle. It is designed to navigate sidewalks and bike lanes in urban and suburban areas. The robot uses a suite of sensors, cameras, and lidar to avoid obstacles.

It can carry up to 30 pounds of cargo. That’s equivalent to about six large pizza boxes. According to DoorDash, the robot will initially handle smaller, standard-sized delivery orders.

Initial public testing is underway in Phoenix. The company aims for a broader rollout in select cities by the end of 2025. This ground-based approach complements Amazon’s aerial drone strategy.

The Broader Push for Automated Last-Mile Delivery

Companies are racing to solve the “last mile” logistics challenge. This final leg of delivery is often the most costly and time-consuming part. Automating it promises faster service and reduced operational expenses.

Amazon has resumed and significantly expanded its Prime Air drone deliveries in 2025. Their service focuses on rapid, airborne delivery for lightweight packages. DoorDash’s ground-based Dot tackles a different part of the same problem.

The economic incentive is clear. Reducing reliance on human drivers for every single order can improve margins. It also allows companies to handle more volume during peak demand periods.

The launch of the Dot delivery robot marks a concrete step toward a hybrid human-and-machine delivery future. Widespread adoption now hinges on public acceptance and regulatory approval.

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What can the Dot delivery robot carry?

Dot can carry up to 30 pounds of cargo. This typically covers standard food delivery orders and small parcels. It is not designed for large grocery hauls or bulky items.

Is Dot a replacement for human DoorDash drivers?

DoorDash states Dot is meant to augment, not replace, its fleet of human Dashers. The company suggests robots will handle simpler, shorter deliveries, freeing up people for more complex tasks.

Where is Dot currently operating?

Dot began its first real-world tests in Phoenix, Arizona. DoorDash plans to expand to more U.S. cities based on the results of this initial pilot program and regulatory discussions.

How does Dot’s top speed compare to a delivery driver?

Dot has a reported top speed of around 20 miles per hour. This is slower than a car but is suitable for navigating sidewalks and pedestrian areas safely where it is designed to operate.

How does Amazon’s Prime Air differ from DoorDash’s Dot?

Amazon Prime Air uses drones for aerial delivery, focusing on speed and direct flight. DoorDash’s Dot is a ground robot using existing pedestrian pathways, focusing on integration with current food delivery logistics.

What are the main safety concerns with delivery robots?

Key concerns include safe interaction with pedestrians, cyclists, and cars at crossings. Companies must ensure the robots can reliably navigate complex urban environments without causing obstructions or hazards.