CHICAGO, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- U.S. automaker Ford announced on Wednesday it would partner with retail giant Walmart to explore how to use driverless vehicles for grocery delivery.

"At Ford, we believe the advent of self-driving vehicles opens up the potential to ease some of life's pain points and markedly expand affordable access to transportation and goods delivery," said Brian Wolf, Director of Business Development, Ford Autonomous Vehicles.

Through this collaboration, said Wolf, Ford will explore how self-driving vehicles can deliver everyday goods such as groceries, diapers, pet food and personal care items.

With the participation of Postmates, an online delivery service, Ford and Walmart have already set up a pilot program that explores how self-driving vehicles can complement Walmart's existing delivery offerings, Ford said in a statement.

Using vehicles designed to simulate an autonomous experience, the research team will gather data about consumer preferences and learn the best way that conveniently connects people with the goods they need.

Earlier this year, Ford launched new business model test involving driverless vehicles in Miami-Dade County, the U.S. state of Florida, starting with Domino's Pizza. Enditem