.lumen, a Romanian deep-tech startup renowned for AI-powered glasses for the visually impaired, has obtained an €11 million grant for the “PABLO – Autonomous Robots for Urban Delivery” project, funded under the Intelligent Growth, Digitalization, and Financial Instruments Program 2021–2027.
The initiative unites a consortium led by .lumen, together with the Institute of Solid Mechanics of the Romanian Academy (IMSAR), BreadCrumbs Interactive (fleet management software), and Linnify (delivery app development). The collaboration focuses on creating a new generation of humanoid and quadruped robots designed for urban delivery, capable of navigating sidewalks and crowded areas autonomously, providing a sustainable and efficient alternative to conventional delivery fleets.
“We’ve proven that PAD AI technology can help visually impaired individuals move independently. Now, we’re extending it to reimagine how goods move in cities. Imagine humanoid and quadruped robots walking on sidewalks, delivering your food or groceries,” said Cornel Amariei, CEO and founder of .lumen.
“The PABLO project reflects our mission to turn fundamental research into real technological applications, through close collaboration between academia and industry. This synergy is an essential step in strengthening Romania’s ability to develop intelligent, sustainable, and competitive systems at a European level in robotics and autonomous mobility,” said Alexandru Gal, Researcher at IMSAR.
The project aims to develop an autonomous urban delivery solution, powered by intelligent humanoid and quadruped robots capable of reducing delivery costs and times, minimizing environmental impact, and meeting the growing demand for fast, flexible, and sustainable services. Expected outcomes include a complete software and hardware system for autonomous robots, the creation of three new R&D positions, a portfolio of national and international patents, and copyright protection for AI-based pedestrian navigation software.
Through the PABLO initiative, Romania advances toward transforming autonomous robotics into practical, real-world solutions for urban life. In the global race to develop humanoid robots, Romania emphasizes creating technologies that deliver tangible, everyday value. Automation of last-mile delivery through this project could provide Europe with a strategic advantage and position Romanian deep-tech as a benchmark for sustainable urban logistics.