How can parcel and mail deliveries in urban areas become more efficient, flexible, and sustainable? That’s the driving question behind a visionary project exploring the use of automated e-cargo bikes to support delivery staff on the so-called “last mile” — the final stretch to the customer’s doorstep. The goal: reduce empty trips, streamline delivery processes, and relieve urban delivery traffic.
At the heart of this innovative concept is a contactless assistance system that allows the cargo bike to autonomously follow the delivery person at walking speed, without the need for hands-on guidance. Advanced sensor technologies ensure safe and precise operation at all times.
Blickfeld LiDAR: Key Technology for Autonomous Following
A multi-sensor setup combining several technologies enables reliable environmental perception. Alongside a Blickfeld 3D LiDAR sensor, the system integrates stereo cameras for side-area depth perception and an additional front-facing camera for image processing and object classification. The LiDAR sensor provides high-precision 3D mapping of the bike’s surroundings, identifying objects and people in its path. This data is enhanced by the camera system, which contributes object classification from the front and additional depth information from the sides.
LiDAR plays a critical role, offering the necessary range and accuracy to detect objects reliably at speeds of just below 6 km/h, and it functions independently of ambient light — a crucial feature for maintaining stable detection in low-light conditions such as early morning or dusk.
Versatile Application Through Sensor-Based Assistance
In practice, the system works as follows: On longer stretches, delivery staff ride the ONO e-cargo bike manually, just like a conventional electric cargo bike. During delivery stops, the bike switches to automated mode and follows the courier contactlessly — precisely and safely. The surroundings are continuously monitored and analyzed, enabling the system to automatically stop for obstacles, and in the future, to even perform evasive maneuvers when needed.
Successful Collaboration Across the Project Network
The project is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) under the IKT3 for Electromobility program and brings together a strong consortium of partners, led by Mediengruppe Magdeburg. Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg is developing the automated driving features, while ONOMOTION provides the e-cargo bike and integrates new components such as the serial-hybrid drive and steering system in cooperation with IAI GmbH. FusionSystems is responsible for environment perception, with the Blickfeld LiDAR sensor forming a central part of the sensor system.
Looking Ahead: From Research to Real-World Deployment
Initial simulations indicate potential time savings of up to 20 percent — a notable improvement over traditional delivery vehicles. A spin-off is already planned to bring the technology to market and expand its practical application.
With Blickfeld’s LiDAR technology as a core component, this project is paving the way for the future of urban logistics — efficient, intelligent, and sustainable.
Image Source Gallery & Header Image: Sahra Kossmann, Universität Magdeburg
