Tag Archive: Industry News

  1. SUFA aims to decarbonise urban freight in the UK

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    Source: Zag Daily

    Cities around the world are increasingly plagued by traffic congestion and air pollution caused by traditional urban freight systems. As the need to rethink logistics grows urgent, a new UK-based organisation has emerged: the Sustainable Urban Freight Association, has been established to challenge outdated logistics systems, showcase the commercial viability of green delivery, and advocate for decarbonised freight solutions nationwide.

    Why SUFA was founded

    The freight industry has long depended on polluting diesel fleets. While alternatives like electric vans and e-cargo bikes exist, their wider adoption has been held back by policy gaps, lack of visibility, and fragmented efforts.

    SUFA brings together 18 founding members—from local operators like Delivery Mates to global names like DHL—to build a united front. Their goal is to share knowledge, raise the industry’s collective voice, and embed sustainability at the core of urban logistics.

    Funding comes from Impact on Urban Health, a London-based nonprofit. Portfolio Manager Amandeep Kellay explains the need for SUFA:

    “Freight is the backbone of our economy. But our systems of freight are broken and in urgent need of modernisation, in urban areas, air pollution disproportionately affects groups including racialised communities, people in lower income areas and children. We believe SUFA’s work to modernise freight will make our towns and cities safer and healthier places to live, work, and grow.”

    Strategic support will be provided by Purpose Union, with Associate Director Tom Hunt noting SUFA’s mission is to promote clean, reliable freight systems that integrate seamlessly into urban life.

    Giving sustainable freight a voice in policy

    Kevin Savage, COO of Delivery Mates, sees SUFA as a powerful way to push sustainable logistics into the mainstream:

    “Large organisations with large infrastructure are not catching up at the speed that they should be. In comparison, there’s a lot of small and medium sized operators out there that have learned how to cleanly deliver in cities right across the UK, not just in London.”

    While smaller firms were forced to evolve quickly under ULEZ and Clean Air Zones, they often lack representation in national policymaking.

    “Delivery Mates doesn’t have much of a seat at the table with the Department for Transport because we’re a smaller operator. But DHL does, and so do the other larger operators. By joining together as part of SUFA, we’ll have a louder voice at the policy table when it comes to lobbying for sustainable logistics.” says Savage.

    Collaboration over competition

    SUFA brings together companies of all sizes, with the diversity fostering cross-learning and mutual growth.

    Savage explains, “Smaller operators can take the best practices from these larger players to scale, whilst larger companies can go even further by learning directly from long-standing zero emission operators”.

    Collaboration could also lower barriers with insurers, where understanding of cargo bike operations remains limited.

    “Cargo bikes and cycling is not very understood by insurers and underwriters. Together, we can make a better representation to underwriters than we could individually.” adds Savage.

    Sustainability and profitability: Not a trade-off

    One of SUFA’s key goals is to prove that green logistics is commercially viable. SUFA member Delivery Mates delivered nearly 3 million parcels in 2024, increasing volume by 36% while cutting total mileage by 45%—optimising routes and reducing costs.

    “We want to change the narrative around sustainable urban deliveries, proving that it’s a model that can be both commercially and environmentally sustainable.” concludes Savage.

    Looking ahead: SUFA’s next steps

    In its first year, SUFA is free to join, and the organisation is already working with policymakers on policy reforms, with efforts including:

    • Proposals to pedestrianise Oxford Street in London
    • Contributions to Transport for London’s Sustainable Freight Strategy
    • Engagement around insurance reform and congestion charge exemptions for EVs

    “Our aims for the first year are small but mighty, we want to deliver quick policy wins, such as making sure the impending congestion charge on EVs in London doesn’t reverse progress on decarbonising transport.” says Hunt.

    Looking further ahead, SUFA may introduce a subscription model, but its immediate focus is on action, inclusion, and visibility, giving many clean freight operators the platform they’ve long lacked.

    As cities increasingly call for faster, cleaner, and more responsible delivery solutions, SUFA has the potential to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of freight transport by driving progress toward a more sustainable and efficient urban logistics system.

  2. New research reveals e-cargo bikes are effective in replacing family car

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    Source: Cycling Electric

    E-cargo bikes are increasingly being recognised as a practical alternative to cars for everyday family transport, according to new research from the UK and Canada. The findings indicate that when e-cargo bikes are more financially accessible and culturally familiar, families are more likely to adopt them, resulting in a measurable reduction in short car trips for school runs, errands, and local commuting.

    In the UK, a recent trial found that when families were given access to e-cargo bikes, many started using them in place of their cars – particularly for short, routine trips. Meanwhile, a study from the University of British Columbia in Canada found that rebates helped households reduce driving and increase cycling significantly. Together, the findings suggest that by making family cycling more normal and affordable, people will cycle more and drive less.

    UK trial shows shift in family travel habits

    The UK research, published in academic publication Geoforum, included 108 interviews with 49 households. Participants used the e-cargo bikes for a month for school drop-offs, supermarket runs and multi-stop errands – replacing trips previously thought to be car-only.

    The families that participated described the experience as a blend of car-like convenience with the sociability and neighbourhood connection of cycling. This shift in perspective, researchers say, represents a new form of “e-cargo bike citizenship” – where utility cycling becomes a normal, desirable part of daily life.

    For many, initial anxieties about safety, infrastructure, or looking different faded with use. Over time, the practicality of e-cargo bikes outweighed concerns, especially when combined with the convenience of avoiding parking issues, combining errands, and discovering more local routes.

    Canadian study on rebate effects

    Meanwhile, with affordability being frequently reported as a barrier for e-bikes, the University of British Columbia in Canada conducted an evaluation of British Columbia’s 2023–24 e-bike rebate programme by tracking over 1,000 participants after three months and twelve months. The results revealed that:

    • Car use dropped by around 20%
    • Weekly e-bike use increased by 40 km
    • Car mileage dropped by 17 km
    • CO2 emissions fell by 17–22%
    • Travel costs reduced by almost 12%

    The programme saw the highest uptake among lower-income households, underlining the impact of targeted support. In short, the study indicates that lowering the cost of access can directly accelerate behavioural change, a finding that echoes the UK trial, which focused on cultural acceptance through experience.

    Increasing e-cargo bike use

    Professor Charlotte Deane, Executive Chair of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), stated that the market is increasingly offering a wider range of e-cargo bike models designed to enhance practicality and accessibility for families. This, she believes, is enabling more households to replace short car trips with cycling, delivering benefits in terms of inclusion, reduced emissions, and lower congestion—while also encouraging more women and children to adopt cycling as part of their daily lives.

    Professor Ian Philips, lead researcher on the UK trial, added that the ELEVATE team is analysing who benefits from e-cargo bikes, and under what conditions, with this type of granular data being useful for councils and transport planners trying to shift short-trip habits.

    Encouraging usage through cost and culture

    When placed side-by-side, the UK and Canadian findings indicate how e-cargo bike usage can be increased:

    • Cultural shift through lived experience (e.g. loan schemes through schools or employers)
    • Affordability through targeted support (e.g. rebates, vouchers, or finance)

    With many daily journeys such as school runs and local trips being short, shifting even a small portion of shorter distance trips to e-bikes can help to free up road space, reduce emissions, and make streets safer.

    What’s needed next

    To build on this momentum, researchers and advocates point to three clear priorities to make e-cargo bike accessibility easier and more affordable:

    • Safe, connected cycling routes, especially to schools and town centres
    • Secure parking for cargo bikes at key destinations
    • Time-limited, try-before-you-buy schemes, supported by inclusive finance options

  3. E-bikes, insights and incentives drive renewed growth in Spanish cycling industry

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    Source: Bike EU

    According to the latest AMBE Bicycle Sector Barometer, presented at Sea Otter Europe, Spain’s bicycle industry is entering the second half of 2025 with cautious optimism.

    The findings also highlight strong growth potential in the e-bike sector, with over 95% of businesses now offering e-bikes, alongside news of a €20 million government subsidy.

    Data-driven growth

    Spain’s bicycle industry association, AMBE, has been admired for its commitment to data collection and analysis as a tool for strategic business planning. Javier López, recently appointed Head of Data at AMBE, emphasised the barometer’s importance:

    “The AMBE Barometer is not just a report: it is a reflection of how our sector is evolving, The participation of stores and companies is what gives it meaning and value, because each piece of data collected helps to draw a more complete and useful picture for everyone. In an environment where trends are changing rapidly, having up-to-date information throughout the year is essential to guide strategies and anticipate challenges.”

    E-bike sales gaining ground

    Although Spain traditionally leans toward non-electric bicycles, e-bike sales are showing promise, with the barometer revealing that 95% of participating businesses now offer e-bikes.

    López added:

    “In retail stores, e-bikes are now almost universal and already account for a significant share of income. This gap highlights the development potential of the category, which will remain a key driver of the sector in the coming years. For example, in the wholesale channel (sell-in), 31% of companies report that e-bikes already account for more than half of their turnover, confirming their growing weight in the business.”

    Government support fuels momentum

    President Pedro Sánchez’s government has announced a €40 million mobility initiative aimed at encouraging e-bike use and expanding bike-sharing systems. The funding includes:

    • €20 million for personal e-bike subsidies.
    • €20 million for upgrading bike-sharing platforms like Bicimad and Bicing.

    Jesús Freire, AMBE’s Secretary General, noted that the consumer subsidies are expected to roll out by the end of 2025.

    Sell-in vs Sell-out trends

    The second edition of the barometer saw 81% of AMBE member companies participate, responding to eight qualitative questions. For the first time, insights gathered a joint perspective from across manufacturers, distributors, and retailers, revealing a significant divergence:

    • Sell-in (brands & distributors): reporting stable or growing figures.
    • Sell-out (retailers): facing more pronounced sales declines.

    Additional findings included:

    • Lower inventory levels.
    • Increasing e-bike availability in stores.
    • Modest but rising online and second-hand sales activity.

    Recovery after three challenging years

    Despite declining sales since 2021, the Spanish bike sector still maintained turnover above pre-COVID levels in 2024. However, revenue dipped 6.5% to €2.3 billion (including parts and accessories).

    Outlook for the remainder of 2025: stabilisation and cautious hope

    Looking ahead, 53% of surveyed businesses expect stable turnover compared to 2024. Brands and distributors remain cautious following a strong start to the year, while retailers are slightly more optimistic—likely due to the time lag between production and final consumer sales. AMBE suggests businesses remain prudent but ready to capitalise on a potential recovery in the latter half of 2025.

    Inventory and profitability pressures

    Stock levels are gradually normalising, with 56% of brands and distributors reporting reductions relative to turnover, thanks to promotions and better stock control. However, half of retailers report maintaining stock at 2024 levels.

    Profit margins remain under pressure:

    • Suppliers have adjusted margins to clear inventory.
    • Retailers saw a slight margin recovery during the first half of 2025.

    AMBE’s growing role

    AMBE now counts 60 full members and 45 associate members. Freire commented on the association’s evolving influence:

    “We are experiencing healthy growth, not that we are hunting growth, but we are seen as becoming more relevant. We have a very united membership, with everybody contributing to pushing the sector forward together.”

    AMBE’s key priorities include:

    • Enhanced data reporting.
    • Policy and fiscal advocacy.
    • Promoting vocational training.

    Freire concluded:

    “Vocational training is so important, as to support the needs of a growing industry, you need training for the sustainability of the industry. So I think it is very important that the Ministry of Education recognises this and supports it fiscally.”

    Sea Otter Europe: a key industry touchpoint

    AMBE presented its findings at the event held in Girona, Spain. With nearly 74,000 visitors, over 500 exhibiting brands and a strong B2B presence via Sea Otter Connect and the Euro Mobility Festival, this year’s ninth edition was the biggest yet.

  4. Enhancing Your Network: 8 URBACT Best Practices for Sustainable Transportation

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    Source: URBACT

    Explore eight innovative urban mobility solutions that have recently received the prestigious URBACT Good Practice label.

    In our increasingly connected world, creating an efficient and appealing urban mobility experience for all is essential for a vibrant city. Transportation options must be both accessible and adaptable to meet diverse needs, while also delivering benefits to local residents and visitors alike. These advantages can manifest in various ways, such as reduced costs, enhanced efficiency, or improved health outcomes—ultimately making travel within and to a city a more pleasant experience.

    Here we look at eight notable urban mobility solutions, part of the 116 newly recognized URBACT Good Practices. At the close of 2024, European cities and regions were encouraged to present their sustainable development initiatives through an open call. Each URBACT Good Practice was chosen based on a thorough expert evaluation, considering its local impact, the extent of participatory and integrated approaches, and its potential for replication in other European cities.

    Motivations for specific mobility purposes

    Although various solutions might be publicly available, the mobility experience is not equal for everyone, and the choice of modes of transit are highly dependent on the specific travel purpose. For cities to provide and facilitate suitable urban mobility solutions, an understanding of the common needs and desires of mobility users, sharing a specific mobility purpose, is crucial.

    #1 – Zaragoza (ES)

    The STARS Zaragoza Project has reached 12,000 primary and secondary school students through an initiative to utilise non-polluting means of travel. By focusing on the promotion of students’ autonomous commuting, city authorities have achieved remarkable results. These include: (i) the establishment of student groups that encourage the use of bikes, supported by a teacher network; (ii) the introduction of female biking role models; (iii) the design of personalised school routes.

    The project’s impact extends beyond the local. Thanks to an alliance between local, regional and state administration and public bodies, the project acts as a beacon of successful multi-level governance.

    #2- Strasbourg Eurométropole (FR)

    Cycling is not only eco-friendly but also budget-friendly for many individuals. The Au Boulot à Vélo, or Bike to Work Challenge, promotes bike commuting, particularly targeting professionals, and is organized in partnership with a local NGO. This annual campaign, which spans the entire month of June, collaborates closely with local cycling groups and businesses.

    In the latest edition, 17,000 participants took part, with over half being women, showcasing a growing trend. Remarkably, more than 2,000 of these participants were newcomers to biking for work. This initiative demonstrates to many that a work commute by bike is not only feasible but also an appealing option.

    #3- Faenza (IT)

    The Bike to Work initiative stands out as another exemplary practice, co-funded by the Municipality of Faenza and the Emilia-Romagna Region. It employs various incentives, including reimbursements for distances cycled, competitive leaderboards, and reward systems, all facilitated through a specialized app.

    So far, participants have collectively cycled a distance equivalent to 15 times around the Earth! The top performers are recognized by the local government during a public ceremony.

    #4- Hannut (BE)

    Ride and Buy is a unique app designed to promote sustainable urban transportation. It encourages students to bike to school with their parents and provides trials and discounts on electric bicycles. Additionally, it offers vouchers redeemable at local shops based on the distance traveled by bike.

    This initiative was born from the creativity of local youth and brought to life with the collaboration of city and regional authorities, highlighting a truly community-driven effort.

    What can your city learn from the above initiatives?

    Addressing specific needs necessitates a thorough comprehension of individual motivations and the benefits they seek. Collaborating with key stakeholders has been essential in enhancing mobility solutions by aligning them with relevant strategic frameworks. This approach has helped ensure that initiatives endure beyond political terms. These efforts have already sparked adaptations that engage local businesses, schools, and even neighboring municipalities.

    On-demand rural mobility solutions

    Delivering traditional public transport can be quite challenging in sparsely populated regions. Many rural areas in Europe struggle to connect scattered communities with effective mobility solutions and resources. Two recently recognized URBACT Good Practices are addressing this issue by promoting on-demand mobility services.

    #5 – Viseu Dão Lafões (PT)

    Ir e Vir enables residents across 13 municipalities to request rides via a free phone line. This taxi-operated service is available on demand, specifically for prearranged stops according to a set schedule, and only when no public transport options are available. It offers accessibility at bus-equivalent fares while optimizing routes based on reservations made a day in advance.

    #6 – Coimbra (PT)

    SIT FLEXI provides a comparable service for its residents, also operated by taxis and available only by reservation. This solution even incorporates interoperability with other mobility services. The planning of routes, stops, and timetables is developed collaboratively, taking into account the needs and preferences of residents and the municipalities involved.

    What can your city learn from these two initiatives?

    These schemes are tailored for rural on-demand services, showcasing how cities can benefit from utilizing existing taxi networks and transportation options. Public authorities have effectively reduced operational costs and minimized environmental impact compared to traditional public transport systems.

    Crucially, these solutions help maintain vital connections within a larger urban-rural network. In essence, they not only improve quality of life and foster social cohesion but also enhance access to essential services like healthcare, education, and job opportunities. Such initiatives can even entice former city dwellers to return.

    While implementing app-based booking systems, it’s essential to retain a phone-based option to accommodate users with limited digital skills.

    Integrated mobility strategies

    Creating, adapting, and sustaining accessible mobility solutions for everyone is a challenging task. Addressing the diverse and evolving needs of the community presents logistical challenges and reveals the limitations of current infrastructure in developing a truly inclusive urban environment. Disjointed mobility solutions risk neglecting specific needs or discouraging the adoption of more sustainable alternatives.

    #7 – Brussels (BE)

    Through the URBACT Good Practice cAIRgo Bike initiative, Brussels encourages the use of cargo bikes to improve urban air quality. This initiative includes subsidies for cargo bike purchases, shared bike systems, and designated parking facilities.

    In addition to enhancing physical infrastructure, the program offers training for families and professionals to ensure safe and effective usage. It also collaborates with local NGOs and private enterprises, aligning with city and regional policies, and has successfully addressed issues of traffic congestion and pollution.

    #8 – Komotini (GR)

    In Komotini, the Accessible City for All initiative has transformed the perception of individuals with disabilities. Instead of being seen merely as a group in need of assistance, they are now valued partners in shaping the city’s identity.

    This initiative, co-funded by the local government and implemented by a community NGO, allows individuals with disabilities to engage in advisory boards and steering committees, and in some cases, to lead and manage various activities. The city is also creating environments that facilitate the rehabilitation of disabled individuals, encouraging them to come to Komotini. This effort has not only improved urban infrastructure for all residents but has also led to the development of social initiatives, including a community center, a halfway house, and an activity center run by and for individuals with disabilities, along with after-school programs for children with intellectual disabilities.

    What can your city learn from these two initiatives?

    Both Komotini and Brussels showcase effective mobility plans that have achieved remarkable results. While Brussels capitalizes on the unique benefits of cargo bikes, Komotini provides an urban setting that not only supports but also empowers a potentially overlooked demographic.

    These strategies can motivate other communities to advocate for similar transformative changes in their own cities.

  5. Vienna releases a position paper regarding automated mobility.

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    Source: Polis Network

    The Urban Development and Planning Department of Vienna (MA 18) has unveiled an extensive position paper regarding the future of automated mobility.

    Released in July 2024, this document articulates the city’s strategic vision for incorporating fully automated vehicles and their significance in shaping Vienna’s long-term urban landscape.

    Vienna is gearing up for a future where automated vehicles (AVs) are set to play a significant role in daily life, as outlined in a recent position paper. This document delves into crucial inquiries that shape the city’s strategy: What effects will various phases of automated mobility have on urban living? In what ways can automated driving help preserve Vienna’s status as one of the globe’s most livable cities? Additionally, what regulatory measures are necessary to ensure that the advantages of automated mobility are fully realized?

    A glimpse into automation

    The city highlights that its assessment of automated mobility prioritizes societal benefits over mere technological or industrial interests. Important factors include contributions to climate objectives, improvements in traffic safety, environmental considerations, the enhancement of public spaces, and increased mobility options for individuals who currently lack independent travel capabilities.

    Additionally, the city envisions a future where automated vehicles, fuelled by decarbonized energy and utilized as shared, high-capacity Mobility as a Service (MaaS), work in harmony with – not against – the city’s efficient public transport system. This strategic vision underscores the role of AVs as a complementary asset to Vienna’s existing transit framework, focusing on environmental advantages while avoiding an increase in vehicle mileage.

    Access the complete paper by clicking on this link.