BOISE, ID - Futuristic new innovations are once again shaking up the retail sector, as Albertsons has just announced a new partnership with automated logistics company Tortoise to pilot its new remote-controlled zero-emission delivery cart in Northern California.

“Our team is obsessed with trying new and disruptive technologies that can bring more convenience for our customers,” said Chris Rupp, Executive Vice President and Chief Customer and Digital Officer. “We are willing to quickly test, learn, and implement winning innovations that ensure we are offering the easiest and most convenient shopping experience in the entire industry.”

The new Safeway cart is operated on an electric battery and can carry up to 120 pounds of groceries in four lockable containers in order to deliver on consumers’ needs for an easy, contactless delivery experience, according to a company release. The cart is equipped with a camera and a speaker and is guided through the neighborhood via a remote operator at an average speed of three miles per hour. Shoppers receive a text to come outside and retrieve their groceries once the cart arrives at their home.

The innovative new service is currently open for testing with Safeway associates in select neighborhoods in Northern California, during which a friendly escort will be accompanying the carts as part of the pilot process.

This pilot comes as a continuation of Albertsons’ previous innovations to improve the contactless shopping experience, as the company also recently announced that it has piloted an automated pickup kiosk and pickup lockers at select Jewel-Osco locations.

As the grocery sector continues to transform before our eyes, what other exciting new innovations will come to light? AndNowUKnow will surely be here to report.

Albertsons Companies