Alibaba, the Chinese e-commerce behemoth, has made headlines with its statement that it will test one-hour deliveries worldwide using an innovative rocket-based delivery method. This breakthrough endeavor is allegedly part of a strategic cooperation with Beijing-based Epoch Space, according to WeChat, a popular Chinese social media platform.
According to a research by Interesting Engineering, with its flagship Taobao marketplace facing tough domestic and foreign competition, Alibaba has been keen on maintaining its e-commerce dominance.
In an effort to improve its delivery services, the firm previously announced a five-day delivery option in key worldwide markets such as Germany, France, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, and, most recently, the US. According to the South China Morning Post (via Interested Engineering), Alibaba’s logistics unit, Cainiao Smart Logistics Network, is facilitating these deliveries.
Furthermore, the report states that in order to shorten delivery times even further, Alibaba is now experimenting with rocket-powered vehicles, utilizing the quickest known means of transportation. The relationship with Epoch Space means using the cargo cabin of the Yuanxingzhe 1, a cutting-edge rocket with a capability of over ten metric tons and a cargo cabin volume of over 4,200 cubic feet (120 m3).
Although the Yuanxingzhe 1 has yet to make its first flight, animations published by Epoch Space show the rocket’s revolutionary design, which includes a conveyor belt mechanism for loading goods, according to the report.
The YXZ-1, like SpaceX’s reusable rockets, is designed for a variety of missions, including simulated landings on ships at sea.
According to the suggested operational sequence depicted in the animation, the rocket launches from China’s eastern province, completes a brief space excursion, and lands in the west around 25 minutes later. After landing, a conveyor belt quickly unloads the cargo compartment, transporting packages to a waiting delivery van for ultimate distribution to clients.
