Uber, Zipline partner on US drone delivery for Uber Eats

Uber Technologies and Zipline announced a partnership on Monday to bring autonomous ​drone delivery to Uber Eats customers across ‌the United States.

The tie-up was accompanied by Uber making a strategic investment in the drone ​delivery company.

The companies said they aim ​to reach 1 million drone deliveries ⁠per day by the end of 2029, ​with the first deliveries beginning later this ​year.

The service will first launch in Zipline's existing U.S. markets before expanding to dozens of additional ​cities.
Uber declined to comment on Reuters' request ​seeking financial details of its investment in Zipline.

Zipline, which ‌operates ⁠in four continents, has made 2 million deliveries so far. The company was most recently valued at $7.6 billion after raising $800 ​million earlier ​this year.

The ⁠Zipline deal is similar to Uber's partnership with drone firm ​Flytrex last year, which also included ​an ⁠investment.

Zipline has been expanding its U.S. footprint, with commercial partners including Walmart, as well ⁠as ​more than a dozen ​restaurant brands such as Panera, Chipotle and Wendy's.

-Reuters