Source: MoLo Hubs Project

Facilitated by MoLo Hubs and the city of Mechelen, Pidpa technicians have traded in their vans for LEVA-EU member Fulpra’s fully equipped electric cargo bikes for a five-week trial. Pidpa is the first water company in the Flanders region to test this sustainable mobility solution.

MoLo Hubs, an INTERREG North Sea Region project, co-funded by the European Union, announced its latest sustainable urban logistics project, which involved Fulpra bikes being customized to be more space-efficient for tools and equipment. This was to assist Pidpa technicians in carrying out their work efficiently as they navigate the city center without parking issues or access restrictions.

From 15 September, Pidpa and the city of Mechelen have been exploring the advantages and limitations of using this sustainable mobility solution, such as its load capacity and battery range. To ensure safety and confidence on the road, Pidpa technicians have also received hands-on training from the Flemish Foundation for Traffic Knowledge.

MoLo Hubs stated that this pilot scheme has taken inspiration from the “Park + Switch” solution in Amsterdam, where service providers leave their vans at a hub on the edge of the city and continue their journeys with a light electric vehicle. By testing a similar approach in Mechelen, Pidpa and the city aim to assess how the model can be tailored to local needs.

“This project shows how sustainable and efficient business practices can go hand in hand,” said Alexander Vandersmissen, Alderman for Mobility and Economy.

“With electric cargo bikes we can continue serving our customers quickly and reliably, while contributing to a more sustainable city.” – Christophe Poels, Director Sales & Marketing at Pidpa.