E-cargo project
Background
With a greater push for active travel, in particular cycling, a wider variety of journey types need to be considered. While using a regular bicycle or e-bike is suitable for most personal trips, we need to consider journeys that are made to transport people or goods. These journeys are more typically carried out by motorised vehicles, but could be replaced with electrically assisted cargo bikes.
Cargo bikes started out as simple trade bikes with a front and rear rack mounted to a conventional bicycle. As use and demand has changed they have become specifically designed to incorporate higher carrying capacities. They come in a range of configurations including two, three or four wheels with front loading or rear loading. They also benefit from the addition of electric power assistance to help the rider pedal.
While cargo bikes do not look like a usual e-bike, they are still governed by the same Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) regulations. The regulations mean for an e-bike or e-cargo bike to be classified as a cycle, the motor must have a maximum output of 250W. The motor stops providing assistance as 15.5mph, although the rider can continue to pedal beyond this speed. Any e-cycle or e-cargo cycle that doesn’t meet these regulations is classed as a motorcycle or moped.
E-cargo bikes are proficient of filling a range of uses, with the largest models capable of carrying a 300kg payload. While not suitable for all cargo, they have been successfully trialled in a number of towns and cities, shifting deliveries from cars and vans. This shift offers environmental benefits in CO2 reductions, time saving in densely populated areas with high levels of traffic congestion.
Family e-cargo bikes are capable of replacing a range of motorised vehicle journeys. They are specially designed with passenger seats suitable for children or adults and are still capable of carrying bags of shopping.
We are looking for businesses that make point-to-point and/or first/last mile deliveries in Luton and would be interested in taking part in the e-cargo bike trial. This includes deliveries between your own sites or to customers. Switching to e-cargo bikes for some or all journeys has been shown to offer a time saving as well as financial benefits in a dense urban environment. The bikes can be branded with your company logo, helping to raise your company profile and show your commitment to a reduction in environmental impacts.
Businesses that show an interest in switching vehicle journeys to e-cargo bikes will be given the opportunity to try out the e-cargo bikes in a controlled environment. We will provide training on the safe use, operation and charging of the e-cargo bike along with instructions on how to securely load cargo. Where needed, we will offer cycle training and route planning to support the rider.
The e-cargo bikes will be available for one to three months free hire. During the hire period we will maintain regular contact to gain feedback on the use of the bikes, developing an understanding of the businesses needs and the capabilities of the bikes to ensure they are getting the best from them. We will also offer as needed:
- maintenance support
- advice
- additional training
We are looking for families who would like to switch some of their car journeys for e-cargo bike journeys. The electronically assisted bikes are available for free hire for up to four weeks (£100 refundable deposit required). Prior to hiring the bike, training will be given in its use and operation including how to recharge it and fit and remove accessories such as the rain hood.
During the hire period we will maintain regular contact to gain feedback on the use of the bike, developing an understanding and helping to ensure the family are getting the best from the e-cargo bike. In addition, we will offer as needed:
- maintenance support
- advice
- additional training
Registering your interest
To find out more about the e-cargo projects please contact [email protected]. We will be able to provide demonstrations and have-a-go sessions for both businesses and family e-cargo bikes. We will discuss your needs and the opportunities the bikes bring including efficiency, convenience and the environmental benefits.