The DELPHI project aims to tackle key challenges in last-mile delivery and urban logistics—such as high costs, environmental impacts, data fragmentation, and stakeholder misalignment—by integrating passenger and freight transport through a cross-modal, multilevel governance model. Central to the project is the development of a Federated Network of Freight and Passenger Platforms designed to improve data sharing, interoperability, and stakeholder coordination.
DELPHI uses AI/ML optimization frameworks and UAV-powered data collection to enhance data availability, traffic monitoring, and environmental assessment. Innovations include shared use of transport assets (e.g., underused taxis), crowd-shipping, and multisource data integration for better last-mile orchestration.
Four real-world pilot demonstrations in Spain, Greece (Attica and Mykonos), and Romania will test the system’s scalability and EU-standard compatibility. These are supported by simulation-based analyses to refine and validate DELPHI’s solutions, with a strong focus on market adoption and transferability across different urban contexts.
The Spanish Use Case in Madrid aims to create a more sustainable and efficient last-mile delivery model by integrating urban and peri-urban logistics through the city’s METRO system. Currently, deliveries from DHL warehouses rely on truck—and van-based transport operated by third parties, which causes inefficiencies, delays, congestion, and environmental harm. DELPHI proposes a shift to a multimodal network where parcels are presorted at DHL facilities into roller cages and transported via the METRO to strategically located depots. From there, parcels are moved to Microhubs within METRO stations, enabling final deliveries by KOIKI couriers using cargo bikes or on foot. This approach increases delivery efficiency, reduces emissions, and leverages public infrastructure to streamline urban logistics.
Source: Delphi