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I don't mean to spoil the holidays with cynicism, but doesn't this seem more like a publicity stunt to get Amazon even more in the minds of Christmas shoppers t

I don't mean to spoil the holidays with cynicism, but doesn't this seem more like a publicity stunt to get Amazon even more in the minds of Christmas shoppers than anything else? It would seem ludicrous if a UPS or FedEx truck were making a trip to deliver one single package and then returning to home base (with an empty truck on the way back) to make another special trip. The whole business of delivery is built on carrying many packages and, if possible, picking up as well as delivering. I realize that little drones aren't the same thing as delivery trucks, but it seems strange that the economics would be that much different. I'll believe it when I see it.

kennywinker 13y ago
The economics ARE different. The costs associated with a delivery truck are 1) gas 2) a driver 3) the truck. The drone has no driver, runs on electricity, and could probably be made for a fair sight cheaper than a delivery van can. I agree, announcing it now is probably a publicity stunt: look at the theatrics in how they announced it. But that doesn't mean it isn't also the future of delivery in some higher density areas.
jessriedel 13y ago
Why would it be strange or surprising at all? The most expensive part of the delivery truck is the driver.