Tag Archive: cargo bikes

  1. Cost-saving potential of cargo bikes for UK families

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    Source: London Daily News, Solve the School Run Image source: Solve the School Run

    New research published by UK charity Solve the School Run (STSR) and advocacy organisation Clean Cities (CC) shows that families can save thousands of pounds a year by swapping their car for an electric cargo bike. However, many households do not have access to suitable storage facilities or are deterred by high up-front costs, so they cannot make the switch.

    The calculations made by STSR and CC demonstrate that using an e-cargo bike and public transport for family travel is £4,000 (€4,636) a year cheaper than using a second-hand family car and public transport. Analysis by Solve the School Run includes purchase price, depreciation, running costs, and additional transport costs.

    CC analysed data from Transport for London which showed that cargo bike journeys doubled between 2022 and 2024, while 2025 Bicycle Association figures showed a 36% year-on-year increase in sales of electric cargo bikes. Despite this, UK sales lag behind other European countries with only 4,000 sold in 2022, compared to 70,000 in France, and 90,000 in Germany. Barriers include up-front costs (with £6,000 being a typical purchase price), and safe storage space.

    Obstacles to switching

    “We speak to hundreds of families every year who are keen to buy an e-cargo bike, but lack of secure storage stops them,” said Alper Muduroglu, CEO of social enterprise Peddle My Wheels. “It means families in flats – who could benefit most from lower transport costs – are effectively locked out.”

    Cargo bikes are too large to use standard cycle hangar facilities; the report on the research reveals that, in London, only two cargo bike-specific secure hangar spaces are available – one for every 4,500,000 people in the capital. This is compared to one million parking spaces for cars. 

    Nicola Pastore, co-founder of STSR, said: “In a cost-of-living crisis, we don’t think it’s fair that families are locked out of savings in this way. Families want a practical, affordable alternative to the car. Councils set aside kerbside space to park cars, why not do the same for a form of transport that is cleaner and cheaper?”

    How councils can support change

    STSR is calling on London boroughs to develop and implement strategies for secure on-street cargo bike parking, and introduce subsidies to boost accessibility to cargo bikes, as outlined in its Streets for Kids manifesto, and as successfully demonstrated by the borough of Richmond. STSR are also asking the Mayor for a London-wide strategy for family e-cargo bikes, aligning with Transport for London’s Cargo Bike Action Plan which focuses on last-mile logistics. 

    Dr Ian Philips, Associate Professor at the University of Leeds, said: “Cargo bikes help people keep active, do activities with family that they might not otherwise have done and they replace car trips – showing great potential for health benefits and carbon savings. Add to this the financial and convenience benefits of these bikes and you have a very strong case for cargo bikes to become a more mainstream form of family travel – as they are in other European countries.”

    Celebrity advocacy

    High-profile cargo bike advocates include TV presenter Dr Chris Van Tulleken, and broadcaster Laura Jackson, who both spoke about their experiences.

    Dr Van Tulleken said, “We replaced our car with a cargo bike and have never looked back. It’s way cheaper and faster than a car, and our favourite way to get all three kids around London – they love it, and I love it. It’s great for our health, our happiness, our climate and our community.”

    Laura Jackson said, “School runs in London rush hour used to be chaotic with three kids, until our Benno. Now we ride together on calmer routes, skipping traffic. E-cargo bikes could transform family travel, but only if boroughs back them with subsidies, secure parking, and cycle training.”

  2. SPEZI 2026 a success in new setting

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    Source: Pedelecs & E-bikes

    The 2026 edition of the SPEZI show took place over the weekend of 25-26 April at its new location at the exhibition grounds in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany. Dedicated to bicycles beyond the “diamond frame standard”, the event showcased a wide variety of mobility solutions including cargo bikes, trikes, recumbent bikes and more.

    The show’s organisers recorded consistently high visitor numbers over the two days, with around 7,500 attendees – of trade professionals, and curious consumers – exploring specialty bikes, accessories and new developments from the 132 exhibitors.

    Exhibitors highlighted the audience’s expertise – visitors arrived well-prepared and ready for detailed discussions around a specific purpose.

    A place for innovation

    SPEZI is a key meeting place for the specialty bike sector, with a focus on direct, meaningful exchange alongside product presentations. In a market segment that is strongly influenced by the need for customised solutions and niche applicaitons, many exhibitors use the show as a springboard for generating innovative ideas, discussing new approaches, and evaluating product concepts.

    A practical focus

    With the show’s focus on customised solutions for a range of applications, the test track is an important aspect in generating and maintaining interest in the products on show. The selection available for test riding included cargo, recumbent and rehabilitation bikes, and velomobiles. With favourable weather for outdoor testing, the show offered a vibrant, immersive format that extends beyond traditional product showcases, with direct contact between manufacturers and end-users an integral element of the concept.

    Freiburg and the future

    The move to the Freiburg location is seen generally as the right, logical step – it has good European accessibility, and has a strong cycling culture. New target groups who had previously had little contact with the specialty bike sector were enticed to attend. The organisers and exhibitors gave a positive assessment to the new location, with a winning combination of an engaged audience, expanded reach, and suitable infrastructure for the show’s future development.

  3. Logistics becomes a green issue ahead of UK elections

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    Source: Zag Daily

    Ahead of local elections across England on 7th May, the Sustainable Urban Freight Association (SUFA) has launched a manifesto which calls on council and mayoral candidates to prioritise green logistics and establish a network of microhubs for last-mile delivery using low-impact options such as electric cargo bikes.

    SUFA represents over 100 logistics companies, and has launched the manifesto as a path to tackling the distribution of ever-increasing online sales in a sustainable way. Online purchases account for over a quarter of the UK’s retail, leading to increased pressure on road networks. In 2024, van traffic was recorded at 58.5 billion vehicle miles (94.1 billion km), representing an increase of almost 10% since 2019.

    The manifesto details

    SUFA wants to see local councils “get serious” regarding local freight rather than treating it as a niche issue, and have outlined three key commitments in the manifesto:

    • Adopt a Freight Policy and Kerbside Plan
    • Commit to a three-year sustainable urban freight budget
    • Protect space for microhub networks

    Under the Freight Policy and Kerbside Plan, councils would liaise with local delivery operators to ascertain what barriers there might be to the adoption or implementation of green delivery methods. A lead official for freight decarbonisation is called for in the manifesto.

    The freight budget would involve mayoral and combined authorities co-funding regional programmes in which freight investment is aligned with decarbonisation goals, as well as high street renewal activities. Local authorities would be expected to match funding and prepare clear delivery plans.

    SUFA also calls for an integrated network of microhubs to be embedded within local transport and freight strategies with a published pipeline of sites. These hubs enable the consolidation of goods for last-mile delivery using low-emission modes of transport like e-cargo bikes.

    Kirsten Smith, Co-Chair of SUFA, said, “Every resident and business in the country relies on freight and logistics to go about their lives. This is only going to increase as more and more people switch to online deliveries or give up their own cars.” She continued: “Councils have huge powers over land use, budgets and policy that can make a big difference in terms of traffic, congestion and clean air. We want candidates to work in partnership with business to really understand the issues and challenges facing the industry as well as the opportunities.”

    Microhub expansion

    On the topic of microhubs, a new coalition was recently created in London, the Urban Microhub Alliance (UMA), which aims to repurpose underused spaces such as railway arches and car parks, into dedicated hubs for modular cargo trailers, and certified delivery bikes and electric mopeds for use by couriers. Each of the 22 London sites operational at the launch has around 100 Port e-bikes available for couriers to rent either through a daily pass or via weekly or monthly subscriptions.

    Kamil Suda, CEO of Port which is one of the UMA founding members, spoke about the need for a network of microhubs. “There is no real incentive for the logistics industry to change its entire operating flow if only one microhub is available. To convince the industry that a sustainable parcel flow is viable, there needs to be a large-scale, plug-and-play solution for delivery companies to execute the last mile.”

    Councillor Rowena Champion of Islington Council highlighted the benefits for riders in the gig economy. “We know that many delivery couriers are marginalised. Having a solution which gives riders access to bikes that are safe and maintained is so important. We want to encourage deliveries by bike and by cargo bike and we want to ensure that the riders themselves are safe.”

  4. Alligt Launches a New Seat 

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    Alligt, the Dutch components specialist and longstanding member of LEVA-EU, has expanded its product catalogue with a seat engineered for a category that has long lacked dedicated hardware: the growing world of cargo bikes and velocars designed around a reclined, legs-forward riding position.

    The new seat is purpose-built for vehicles where the rider sits with legs extended in front of the body — a geometry fundamentally different from upright cycling and one that places entirely distinct demands on seat design. Comfort, structural integrity, and versatility of mounting all had to be rethought from the ground up.

    Constructed from PA 6 polymer via injection moulding and reinforced with 30% glass fibre, the seat achieves a weight of approximately 1.9 kg — striking a balance between structural rigidity and the weight-consciousness that defines performance-oriented cargo and velomobile applications. The glass-fibre loading gives the shell both stiffness and resilience under the varied loading cycles typical of daily urban cargo use.

    Key Technical Features

    • Designed for legs-forward reclined seating geometry
    • PA 6 injection-moulded construction
    • 30% glass fibre reinforcement for rigidity
    • Weighs approximately 1.9 kg
    • Reinforcement panels on rear surface
    • Four rigid mounting cavities
    • Compatible with a variety of mounting configurations
    • Suitable for cargo bikes and velocars

    The rear of the seat incorporates several reinforcement panels alongside four rigid cavities — a thoughtful structural choice that simultaneously stiffens the shell and provides multiple attachment points. This flexibility in mounting means the seat can be integrated across a wide range of frame geometries and bracket systems without requiring bespoke adaptors, reducing both development time and cost for manufacturers building on it.

    The addition rounds out Alligt’s commitment to supplying the light electric and human-powered vehicle sector with components designed specifically for the demands of modern micromobility — rather than adapted from conventional bicycle or automotive supply chains.

    For more information, visit alligt.nl or email leovisscherkorver@gmail.com. Or visit Alligt at https://en.spezialradmesse.de on 25 and 26 April.

    Photos: Alligt.nl

  5. Municipality of Groningen introduces shared cargo bikes

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    Sources: Fietsberaad, Gemeente Groningen Picture credit: Alexander Bagno, Unsplash

    From March 1, the shared micromobility picture in Groningen, the Netherlands, has changed, with 50 electric cargo bikes now added to the mix, alongside more shared scooters. The municipality aims to boost accessibility and livability with its updated shared transport offering.

    The new cargo bikes will be available from fixed locations, which were decided in collaboration with Groningen residents, helping to ensure that they are placed in spots which suit the neighbourhood, and can provide greater carrying power than a standard bike for tasks such as grocery shopping or ferrying children around. Shared mobility policy advisor, Thijs Oost, said, “We see in other cities that cargo bikes really add value. They don’t replace a regular bicycle, but they complement the supply for specific situations.”

    The new scheme also involves two new operators for shared bikes, providing a total fleet of 800, and a doubling of the shared e-scooter fleet to 600 units. Both shared bikes and e-scooters may only be parked in specific digital parking zones, which can be easily viewed in the operators’ apps, to ensure that pavements and pedestrian areas remain free of clutter.

    Keeping Groningen moving

    Alderman Philip Broeksma said, “shared mobility helps keep Groningen accessible and liveable, especially now that the municipality is growing. With clear rules, we ensure that usage goes hand in hand with a safe and accessible public space. That is why we are opting for control. Shared bicycles and shared scooters may only be parked in digital parking zones, and shared cargo bikes will be assigned fixed spots. Usage is monitored, and providers promptly remove illegally parked vehicles.”

    Municipal authorities advise that discounts will be available in due course for the shared vehicles, for Stadjerspas holders, students, and the elderly. More details on this will follow after discussions with the service providers.


  6. Spezi moves to Freiburg

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    Source: Velobiz

    After being held in Lauchringen for three years, the German trade event which hosts an array of special bike models including cargo and recumbent bikes, will take place on April 25-26 in Freiburg im Breisgau for the first time next year, to accommodate the increasingly larger range of mobility solutions available for different users.

    Spezi fair organisers Franz Furmaniak, Florian Wolf, and Gabriel Wolf were interviewed about Spezi, and what visitors can expect from its 2026 event, with some key takeaways.

    Larger venue enables broader mobility options to be exhibited, with convenient transportation links

    The Spezi special bicycle trade fair will take place in Freiburg im Breisgau for the first time in 2026, supported by a significantly larger exhibition venue. The move provides roughly one third more exhibition space than its previous location, with the option to expand further in coming years. This additional capacity allows the fair to accommodate a wider range of exhibitors, larger vehicles, and other event features to support its evolution into a dedicated mobility-focused event. It also provides great transportation links, increasing accessibility options for its visitors.

    Cargo bikes as a central theme

    Cargo bikes will be a major focus of the exhibition, benefiting directly from the expanded floor space. Exhibitors will be able to present transport solutions for commercial logistics, last-mile delivery, family use, and leisure applications. The prominence of this segment reflects the rapid growth of cargo bikes as viable alternatives to cars, particularly in urban environments.

    Inclusive mobility and solutions for seniors

    A second key area will highlight mobility solutions for seniors and people with physical limitations, with products such as adapted bicycles, tricycles, and assisted vehicles addressing increasing demand for inclusive mobility options that extend independent movement beyond the conventional bicycle.

    Urban and intermediate mobility vehicles

    The fair will also devote space to intermediate mobility concepts that bridge the gap between bicycles and light motor vehicles, such as light electric vehicles that respond to changing urban transport needs.

    Specialty, touring, and compact bicycles

    Established Spezi segments such as velomobiles, recumbent bicycles, folding bikes, and compact bicycles will remain part of the exhibition. In addition, a dedicated area for touring bicycles will be introduced, targeting cyclists planning longer journeys and allowing traditional manufacturers to present their products alongside specialty designs.

    Accessories and B2B facilitation opportunities

    The expanded exhibition grounds also create more room for the growing accessories sector and for early-stage concepts.

    Spezi’s networking areas and innovation-focused presentations will position Spezi as a platform for exchange and experimentation within the evolving mobility market.

    The full interview with the Spezi organisers can be accessed on Velobiz.

    Special Xmas offer

    Until 31st December, Spezi is offering a 25% discount on purchases for weekend tickets.

  7. What do cargo bikes need for survival in the urban transport landscape?

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    Source: Momentum

    The cargo bike has increasingly established itself in much of Europe and beyond, proving itself adept at transporting both people and goods in urban and city environments. Its uptake is comparable to the popularity of rickshaws in some global regions, and measures should be taken to encourage and protect the use of cargo bikes in ever-more congested cities.

    It is estimated that 70% of the world’s population will be city-dwellers by 2050, and it is inevitable that the pressure on transportation systems will intensify. The cargo bike can be seen as a key solution to a number of urban transport requirements, with their increasing use by logistics companies for last-mile delivery solutions, and as a growing family transport option. However, for continued cargo bike uptake and usage, the right conditions need to be in place.

    Misplaced priorities

    Cycling magazine Momentum has drawn a parallel between the cargo bike, and the traditional rickshaw which has been widely adopted across Asia since its 19th century invention. Both modes of transport are pedal-powered, with electrically assisted models available as well as purely human-powered options. They are capable of carrying considerable loads – whether goods or passengers – and are designed for easy navigation of urban streets, with zero tailpipe emissions.

    Dhaka in Bangladesh was once seen as the world’s rickshaw capital, providing the mode of transport for a large proportion of daily trips. However since 2019 they have been subject to a number of attempted bans and restrictions, on the basis that they slow down motorized traffic. The attempted bans have been met with strong opposition by rickshaw drivers and those who use the services, while Momentum points out that the restrictions expose “deep flaws in urban planning logic that prioritizes cars over people.”

    Ingredients for cargo bikes’ survival

    The stigmatizing of rickshaws can be viewed as a cautionary tale. Pedal-powered transportation with heavy-duty pulling power, such as cargo bikes, can thrive in urban environments and keep people and goods moving in an efficient and sustainable way. However the right policy attitudes need to be in place: decent, supportive infrastructure, uptake incentives, and reasonable and logical regulations regarding products and their use.

  8. Promovec launching new bikes across the UK, Sweden and Denmark

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    Source: Promovec

    LEVA-EU member Promovec is set to launch a range of its e-bike models to selected bike dealers in Denmark, Sweden and the UK, with availability commencing in Spring 2026.

    The ranges launching in the three countries include those from Promovec’s Batribike brand, which offers classic two-wheeled e-bikes with a focus on price, quality and functionality. Promovec state that the range of bikes come in familiar designs but also feature upgraded, high-quality components across three distinct price categories.

    Promovec’s new electric cargo bike brand, Humber Bicycles, will also be introduced, with two- and three-wheeled models available.

  9. EIFEL Project helps bpost achieve zero-emission deliveries in Brussels

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    Source: VUB Mobilise

    The EIFEL Project established by VUB Mobilise in 2021 played a supporting role in enabling Belgian post operator, bpost, to achieve zero-emissions mail and parcel deliveries across Brussels earlier this year.

    VUB Mobilise point out that there are numerous environmental, societal and economic benefits following the shift to electric cargo bikes and vans for urban freight.

    The network of collection points was expanded, helping to reduce overall vehicle-kilometers. Moreover, a concerted effort to transfer delivery activities from electric vans to bike trailers has cut road accident impacts by 17%, and overall traffic congestion has been reduced, saving an estimated 566 hours per year.

    VUB Mobilise researchers Koen Mommens and Joséphine Mariquivoi contributed to the outcomes of the EIFEL Project. Their work assessed the impacts of the transition, and engaged with postal staff to capture their views, helping to prevent any resistance and adverse effects during the implementation stage.

    VUB Mobilise also examined consumer responses from 19 municipalities, identifying five distinct demographic groups and developing insights for targeted communication, policy design and future research into sustainable urban logistics.