The Russian government has introduced federal regulations for delivery robots, establishing clear traffic rules and technical requirements. Previously, the fleet of approximately 1,000 robots operated by Yandex lacked a unified legal framework. The new rules, which took effect on September 29, 2026, aim to integrate these devices into urban infrastructure safely.
Under the new regulations, robots must weigh no more than 120 kg and are limited to a maximum speed of 25 km/h on bike paths. When operating on sidewalks, speed is capped at 10 km/h, and it must drop to 6 km/h when crossing roads. Robots are required to yield to pedestrians, cyclists, and emergency vehicles, and they cannot travel on sidewalks narrower than one meter.
Technical standards mandate that each rover be equipped with cameras, lighting, audio signals, license plates, and a lidar with a scanning range of at least 30 meters. Additionally, operators must carry insurance with a coverage amount of 500,000 ₽ per unit. These requirements apply to all participants in the experimental legal regime.
The experimental program includes Yandex subsidiary RoboDostavka, Dronshab, and SberLogistics. Officials expect the total fleet of delivery robots to reach 12,000 units following the completion of the pilot project. The initiative is intended to provide a foundation for future adjustments to national traffic laws and operational standards for autonomous delivery systems.
