An unmanned delivery truck hauls a major load in the Liangjiang New Area of Southwest China. [Photo/liangjiang.gov.cn]

The first unmanned delivery truck in Southwest China - developed by Changan Minsheng APLL Logistics Co - officially began operating on March 24 in the Liangjiang New Area in Chongqing municipality.

Logistics workers choose the destination from the truck's touch screen, authorize the drive by card and start the unmanned truck to complete a delivery.

"The drive covers 4 kilometers and takes about 40 minutes," said a worker who controlled the vehicle. Actions such as giving way to pedestrians, shifting lanes and performing turning signals can be done by the truck itself, he added.

As a smart services provider based in the Liangjiang New Area, Changan Minsheng APLL Logistics Co has focused on providing unmanned delivery systems, which are becoming popular internationally.

"Replacing traditional manned trucks with unmanned ones can increase transport efficiency by 30 percent and lower annual costs by more than 3 million yuan ($450,000)," said Wu Xi, a company manager.

"The truck also makes less noise and emits less exhaust," Wu added.

It is understood that the company is only one part of Liangjiang's overall commitment to providing a comprehensive and complete smart logistics system.

Changsha Intelligent Driving Institute Ltd (CiDi) in Liangjiang plans to join forces with auto manufacturer BYD and technology giant Huawei to provide solutions on autonomous driving.

In addition, several trial zones and demonstration centers have been built in Liangjiang to develop unmanned vehicles.