Domino's has just launched its Delivery ExPert (DXP) pizza delivery car, a modified Chevy Spark that was built to transport pepperoni, Italian sausage, vegetarian, and even anchovy-topped pies to its hungry customers. The vehicle features an outward-facing warming oven that allows delivery guys and gals to keep the tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese goodies piping-hot until they get to the doorstep of patrons who made the order, and a gigantic storage space for 80 pizza boxes.
Domino's unveiled the DXP at an Automotive Press Association event on October 21, Wednesday. It was at its Ann Arbor, Michigan headquarters.
Drivers can access the built-in oven from the automobile's exterior by using a key fob (small security hardware device). Meanwhile, the 80-pizza storage space is available because only the driver's seat was left in the vehicle, according to Automotive News.
The DXP pizza delivery vehicle also features a side mirror puddle light so the driver can spot any potential thieves or attackers when climbing out of the car. Another light shows that the driver is out making a delivery.
Interestingly the DXP, which took three years to design, is not just a concept car. Roush Performance, specializing in in high-performance car components, will be teaming up with Domino's to build 100 DXP pizza cars.
Domino's oven-equipped autos will be rolling out to 25 United States cities within 90 days, according to Engadget. They include Boston, Dallas, Detroit, San Diego, and Seattle.
The new pizza delivery cars are expensive. However, the mobile oven and enormous storage space would boost the drivers' pies-per-trip ratio, which would certainly in turn increase customer satisfaction. Plus, the souped-up Chevy could serve as some free advertising.
Domino's DXP will have a price tag of $20,000 to $25,000, while a standard Chevy Spark costs about $12,200. Most Mom and Pop pizza restaurants will probably not place an order for one.
However, nationwide chains such as Pizza Hut, Papa John's, and Little Caesars might take notice. The pizza delivery car could be seen as a competitive edge.
Domino's is the U.S.'s second-largest pizza company, with over 11,000 locations worldwide. It follows Pizza Hut.
Here is a first look at Domino's DXP: