E China's Qingdao explores smarter ways to improve delivery safety

(ECNS) -- Alibaba’s on-demand delivery platform Taobao Flash Sale, also known as Taobao Shangou, has introduced a new safety measure that adds riders' waiting time at traffic lights to their delivery time allowance. Qingdao in Shandong Province is among the first cities to adopt this mechanism.

The system automatically detects when riders stop at red lights, displays “waiting at traffic light” on the navigation page and records the waiting time without requiring any manual input.

In the initial phase, the program covers all Taobao Flash Sale riders in Qingdao’s Jimo District, with plans to expand to more areas.

This initiative is part of Taobao Flash Sale's broader efforts to improve rider safety through technology and collaboration with local authorities. The platform has provided safety reminders for risks such as speeding, distracted driving, and running red lights using AI-powered assistance, while also offering traffic safety training and incentives for riders.

Taobao Flash Sale has also rolled out other measures, including smart lockers and improved delivery services, to reduce pressure on riders and improve delivery efficiency.

(By Intern Liu Shuangjing, Zhang Dongfang)