Grab buys Chinese AI robotics startup to automate deliveries in SEA

Grab has acquired Infermove, a Chinese AI robotics startup, as part of its strategy to boost automation in its delivery operations.

Infermove, founded in 2021 and with offices in Beijing and Suzhou, develops autonomous driving systems and delivery robots designed for complex environments.

The company’s robots are used by major Chinese delivery platforms – including Meituan, Ele.me, and Sam’s Club – and have pilot projects in Singapore, Japan, and Australia.

Infermove had previously raised at least US$3.3 million from investors and was valued at about US$33 million in 2024, with reports of a valuation no less than US$50 million before the Grab deal.

Grab’s CTO, Suthen Thomas, told staff that Infermove would continue to run independently, with founder Aaron Lu leading the team.

Grab, listed on Nasdaq, is expanding robotics and AI to address rising labor costs and growing demand for on-demand delivery in Southeast Asia.

🔗 Source: Infermove

🧠 Food for thought

Implications, context, and why it matters.

Grab’s deal terms stay hidden

The acquisition’s price, payment terms, and earnout provisions (contingent payments tied to future performance) remain private 1 2. That makes it hard to judge whether this is a strategic bet or a tuck-in (a small acquisition folded into an existing business).
Infermove held a 2024 valuation of US$33 million 1, while reports mention a round at no less than US$50 million 3. So Grab likely paid in that band. With no confirmation, investors cannot judge capital allocation discipline or Return on Investment (ROI) timelines.
Revenue rose from Renminbi (RMB) 100,000 in 2023 to RMB 10 million in 2025, with 2026 projections above RMB 200 million 3. This signals rapid commercialization. Whether Grab bought proven tech or upside still hinges on hidden deal mechanics.

Delivery automation vendors can sell into Southeast Asian property and logistics

Infermove pilots in Singapore, Japan, and Australia 3. Suppliers can pitch teleoperations software (tools to remotely monitor and control robots) plus fleet safety tools, building integration systems, or charging gear. Property managers at malls, office parks, hospitals, or universities control where robots will work.
QuikBot, a delivery robotics vendor, worked with FedEx in Singapore and saved couriers over an hour daily during its trial 4. Firms with mapping, compliance, or connectivity add-ons can use similar gains to pitch logistics operators that run pilots.
The global last-mile delivery robotics market could exceed US$20 billion by 2027 3. Providers can chase tenders and pilot expansions across Southeast Asia’s fragmented delivery landscape.