The drone delivery pilot is currently in operation, with five sequential flights scheduled between 1:25 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., transporting goods from the Naegok Gas Station to the Cheonggyesan Waterfront Park. (Image: The Seoul Metropolitan Government)
SEOUL, May 22 (Korea Bizwire) –In a pioneering move, the Seoul Metropolitan Government has embarked on a pilot program for drone deliveries originating from new gas stations that combine cutting-edge logistics functions with traditional refueling services.
These next-generation gas stations integrate logistics capabilities and advanced technologies like robots and drones into spaces traditionally centered on refueling and car washing services.
In November 2022, the city designated the GS Caltex Naegok Gas Station in Seocho District as its pilot site for an advanced logistics complex. After equipping the station with automated logistics systems, including robotic delivery services, operations commenced on November 23 of last year.
The drone delivery pilot is currently in operation, with five sequential flights scheduled between 1:25 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., transporting goods from the Naegok Gas Station to the Cheonggyesan Waterfront Park.
While previous drone delivery trials have primarily occurred in remote or island regions, Seoul has been actively exploring methods to facilitate the adoption of drone logistics within urban areas. This includes utilizing the airspace above gas stations for flight tests as part of the city’s efforts to commercialize the technology.
As drone delivery demonstrations in metropolitan settings remain rare, Seoul’s pilot program is expected to significantly contribute to the advancement of logistics technology utilizing unmanned aerial vehicles.
The realization of drone-based delivery services would leverage aerial routes in cities, potentially alleviating traffic congestion, reducing delivery times, and improving overall logistics competitiveness.
The city highlighted that the integration of logistics robots has enabled fully automated processes for receiving, sorting, and dispatching goods, expediting deliveries while maximizing the use of space – a significant advantage over traditional logistics facilities that require dedicated areas for human workers and equipment like forklifts. (Image provided by the Seoul Metropolitan Government)
According to the city, the new gas station has been successfully conducting logistics delivery demonstrations. Over a six-month period, the station’s cutting-edge logistics facilities, including an Auto Store, facilitated a total of 4,374 deliveries, averaging 875 per month.
Notably, the average monthly delivery volume this year has reached 1,039, a 4.7-fold increase compared to 219 last year. The monthly average for cargo intake has also risen from 5,115 items in 2023 to 7,876 this year.
The city highlighted that the integration of logistics robots has enabled fully automated processes for receiving, sorting, and dispatching goods, expediting deliveries while maximizing the use of space – a significant advantage over traditional logistics facilities that require dedicated areas for human workers and equipment like forklifts.
“Through this pilot, we aim to validate the potential of drones as a next-generation core logistics technology and elevate Seoul’s logistics capabilities to new heights,” said Yun Jong-jang, head of Seoul’s urban transportation department.
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
