UNITED KINGDOM – The Telegraph reports that Domino’s in New Zealand may have created the best use for robots yet: pizza delivery.

The news source writes that the pizza chain is planning to test delivery by robot, dubbed the Domino's Robotic Unit (DRU), which is a three-foot tall battery-powered unit that contains a heated compartment for storing up to 10 pizzas, and is capable of self-driving up to 12.5 miles. Sensors on the DRU can detect obstacles on its route, and customers receive a unique code to key into the pizza compartment once it arrives at their house to prevent thieves from trying to steal the pizzas.

The DRU is designed to drive on both roads and pavements, and returns to its home store to recharge once the delivery has been completed. “DRU is cheeky and endearing and we are confident that one day he will become an integral part of the Domino's family,” New Zealand general manager of Domino’s Scott Bush told the news source. “He's a road to the future and one that we are very excited about exploring further.”

Domino's and the New Zealand government are working toward a date for the trial to begin, writes the Telegraph, in addition to driverless vehicle regulations that are still being discussed.

Delivery by robot is not so far-fetched! For more on how robot delivery is becoming mainstream read Endcap in the February issue of NACS Magazine.