Tag Archive: SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY

  1. LEVA-EU Statement on the Future of Eurobike

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    LEVA-EU does not wish to comment on the individual decisions of ZIV, Zukunft Fahrrad, Bosch, or other companies that have chosen not to participate in Eurobike. What matters is the broader question of how the light mobility sector chooses to engage with a rapidly evolving landscape.

    Eurobike remains the only truly international trade show in Europe that brings together companies and visitors from around the world. There is continued value in maintaining such a platform, and Eurobike has fulfilled this role effectively for many years. While improvement is always possible, there is no reason to dismiss the platform outright. Its relevance can and should be strengthened by ensuring it fully reflects the wider world of light mobility, including emerging developments, challenges, and opportunities.

    At the same time, concerns within the sector should not be ignored. The steadily rising cost of participation has become a barrier for many companies, particularly smaller and innovative ones that are essential to the future of light mobility. The relocation from the more intimate and compact setting in Friedrichshafen to the much larger and more impersonal Messe Frankfurt has likewise had clear consequences. Because the distances between halls and meeting locations are much greater, exhibitors and visitors now spend significantly more time walking from one appointment to the next. This reduces the total number of meetings they can realistically conduct and limits the spontaneous interactions that once characterised Eurobike. These developments raise the question of whether the aspiration for ever-increasing economic scale should be reconsidered in favour of qualitative growth, with greater emphasis on relevance, accessibility, and meaningful exchange.

    LEVA-EU represents the Light Electric Vehicle (LEV) sector rather than the bicycle industry alone. Electrically assisted cycles are one important segment, but LEVs extend far beyond bicycles. Our mission is to advance sustainable mobility by promoting the broader adoption of LEVs. The form these vehicles take is secondary to their contribution to reducing reliance on heavy, resource-intensive transport. This transition cannot be driven by bicycles alone.

    For that reason, Eurobike should continue its evolution beyond a purely bicycle-focused event and embrace the wider LEV sector. There is no valid argument for excluding LEVs; on the contrary, the bicycle and LEV industries can reinforce each other and stimulate innovation. A broader focus on mobility solutions could also attract new groups of professional visitors. Cities and local authorities, logistics and delivery companies, fleet operators, public transport providers, real estate developers, last-mile delivery specialists, and corporate mobility managers all have growing interest in light electric mobility. Their involvement would expand the show’s reach and enhance its relevance across the wider mobility ecosystem.

    The development of heavy-duty cargo bikes illustrates the importance of this shift. These vehicles require specialised components not yet available from traditional bicycle suppliers. Highlighting such emerging needs would help Eurobike attract new participants and strengthen its role as a forward-looking platform.

    LEVA-EU will continue to attend Eurobike, as it remains the only European event offering a comprehensive opportunity to meet and engage with a broad international audience. Our members will make their own decisions based on their individual business needs.

    The situation surrounding Eurobike reflects a wider challenge within the bicycle industry. Parts of the sector appear to be struggling to adapt to a changing mobility environment, particularly in the current economic climate. There is a perception that the market is contracting and that more participants must now compete for smaller shares.

    LEVA-EU does not share this view. We are convinced that the market can grow substantially if the industry focuses on advancing light, sustainable mobility. Both bicycles and LEVs have significant potential to support individuals and businesses in shifting toward cleaner transport.

    Rather than withdrawing, the sector should concentrate on realising this potential. Eurobike provides a valuable platform to support that effort. It should not be abandoned, but further developed in a way that prioritises quality, inclusiveness, and future-oriented mobility solutions.

  2. MAHLE participates in Palencia sustainable mobility event

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    Source: MAHLE

    Marco A. de la Serna, Head of Strategy and Business Development at LEVA-EU member MAHLE SmartBike Systems, spoke at the recent “Palencia se mueve. Sustainable Mobility” event.

    Translating as “Palencia is on the move. Sustainable Mobility”, the event was organised by El Norte de Castilla at the Lecrác Cultural Centre. The session brought together municipal representatives and industry experts to explore the challenges and opportunities facing medium-sized cities like Palencia in their transition towards cleaner, more efficient and people-centred mobility models. Marco shared MAHLE’s perspective on the bicycle as a key tool for urban transformation, highlighting that every kilometre travelled by bike is a step towards a more human-centred city. The event also highlighted the value of local talent and Palencia’s potential to become a testing ground for new cycling technologies.

    Marco stated: “At MAHLE SmartBike Systems, we are deeply committed to supporting Palencia in its journey toward more inclusive and sustainable mobility. We believe there is a real opportunity for the city to become a benchmark in urban transformation—provided that the right policies are implemented to embrace all forms of mobility, rather than limiting emerging alternatives. We’re proud to be considered a relevant stakeholder in this strategic dialogue and will continue working to ensure that technology helps build cities that are more accessible, equitable and people-focused.”

  3. The benefits generated by European bike sharing amount to €305 million per year, study shows

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    Sources: Zag Daily, Cycling Industry News, SAZ Bike

    A new study has shown that the substantial positive benefits of Europe’s bike sharing sector include an annual saving of 46,000 tonnes of CO2, a reduction of 760,000 hours of traffic congestion, and the creation of 6,000 jobs. An annual value of €305 million has been attributed to the benefits, alongside a significant contribution to environmental, public and economic health.

    The research, carried out by EY, aims to quantify both the economic and social returns on investment into bike-sharing schemes in 150 cities across the European Union, the UK, Switzerland and Norway. The combined fleet size is 438,000 shared bicycles, enabling millions of trips for users to connect with work, education and public transportation.

    Key annual highlights of bike-sharing benefits

    • 46,000 tonnes of CO2 and 200 tonnes of harmful air pollutants saved
    • Active mobility helps prevent 1,000 chronic diseases, leading to €40 million of healthcare savings
    • 760,000 hours of productivity saved thanks to reduced traffic congestion, valued at €30 million
    • 6,000 full-time equivalent jobs created in roles supporting the bike-sharing sector, both practical (e.g. mechanic, logistics) and in HQ environments (e.g. customer service, marketing)
    • Mobility expenses for users reduced by up to 90% compared with cars
    • Current 10% annual return on investment: €1 spent generates €1.10 in positive external outcomes

    Projected factors for further growth

    The study also looks to the future, forecasting that with continued investment and expansion, by 2030 a further 224,000 tonnes of CO2 can be saved, over 4,200 chronic diseases prevented, and almost 13,000 jobs created. This is calculated to a €1 billion annual benefit – or, put another way, a 75% return on public spending investment.

    This forecasted growth would depend on four conditions being met:

    • Growing demand due to urbanisation
    • Regulatory support and network expansion
    • Electrification of fleets
    • Integration with public transport networks and systems

    Nick Brown, CEO of bike-share operator services provider Velogik UK, acted as Study Project Lead on the research, and spoke of the report’s significance for Europe’s transport systems, and cities in general.

    “The first step is simple but crucial – recognise cycling as a form of transport, not just recreation. It deserves the same strategic investment and policy attention as roads, rail, or public transport. If governments start treating bike share and cycling infrastructure as part of the transport ecosystem, then funding follows and so do results.

    “Cities have always felt that bike share delivers social and environmental benefits – but until now, they haven’t been able to prove it in financial terms. That’s what’s been missing: a way to demonstrate the true success of bike share schemes through hard data and credible economic modelling.

    “Thanks to this study, we now have a methodology that does exactly that – it quantifies the benefits in euros and ROI. Once decision-makers can see those numbers, the case for investment becomes undeniable.”

    The EY study was commissioned by EIT Urban Mobility and CIE, and can be downloaded here.

  4. Former Stromer leader announces new company Viiala

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    Sources: Saz Bike, Cycling Electric, BikeBiz

    Former Stromer CEO Tomi Viiala has announced his new company, Viiala, created in partnership with Francois-Henri-Bennahmias, of The Honourable Merchants Group (THMG). The new brand, a LEVA-EU member, will position itself above the current premium e-bike city and commuting market, in targeting an array of transportation users. Viiala will incorporate automotive and motorcycle expertise in innovating its models with cutting-edge design and technology, with assembly based in Europe.

    Viiala has stated its intentions in combining advanced, automated manufacturing experience with industry-leading e-bike expertise and award-winning motorcycle design to create speed pedelecs with high technological capabilities that compete with not just other bikes, but all other forms of mobility.

    Co-founder Tomi Viiala said the following about his new company’s direction:

    “Welcome to the new world! I can say that Viiala will be unlike anything that came before. Not a controversial thing to say when we explore what we are working on creating.

    “Let’s be clear: Viiala has been founded to redefine what cycling stands for. Our competition isnʼt other bike brands – itʼs every other mobility option you could pick.”

    The brand has committed to prioritising reliability, rider safety, power management, range, design, and digital integration to develop a relentless e-bike that works every day for users as a premium commuting and urban solution.

    Viiala will lead on a system-level approach, by designing an encompassing chassis, battery packaging, drive integration, and a software layer together from conception.

    Viiala: breaking the norm of the bike industry

    Viiala aims to set a new standard from the existing market and challenge the industry.

    The company is looking to the automotive and motorcycle industries for partnerships, suppliers and manufacturing capabilities to help it expand beyond the bike industry in developing its high-end speed pedelecs.

    Viiala states that his team envisions unique opportunities to innovate a frame in a method that’s not normally used by the traditional cycling industry, develop their own e-bike motor, and to assemble with the robotic efficiency associated with automotive production. By innovating outside industry norms, he aims to convert non-cyclists to adopting Viiala speed pedelecs into their lifestyles.

    “As a low-volume producer, we are focused on innovation and delivering market-redefining two-wheeled vehicles – where engineering, aesthetics, and purpose converge to create the ultimate riding experience for an audience currently not engaged by or served by the cycling industry. Our mission at Viiala is to create bikes that today seem unimaginable, but tomorrow become indispensable.”

    Industry-leading team

    CEO and co-founder Tomi Viiala boasts a wealth of experience in the e-bike industry, having worked in senior leadership at Stromer for 11 years with a background in brand building, global sales, as well as design-led positioning. This expertise will help him to propel Viiala forward in bringing its premium solutions from concept to reality.

    Viaala is a company that comes under co-founder François-Henri Bennahmias’ THMG, a holding entity featuring a number of companies which represent distinct sectors of the luxury industry. Bennahmias is most renowned as being the CEO of watchmakers Audemars Piguet for 10 years, before establishing THMG in September 2025. Although they have become highly respected figures in different industries, both Bennahmias and Viiala share a passion for cycling and sustainable mobility, and smarter, space-efficient urban cities that encourage two-wheeled transportation.

    The Viiala co-founders (left to right) Tomi Viiala, and François-Henri Bennahmias

    Joining the Viiala team is Chief Innovation Advisor, Humna Khan, who brings advanced experience in aerospace innovation, and Pit Pillatsch as Head of Engineering, whose experience includes positions as former Engineering Director e-bike Systems and Principal Technical Product Manager at Specialized. With his extensive motorcycle design experience that includes working for Honda and KISKA, Craig Dent, Co-Founder, Design Director and CEO at RiDE Studio, is a welcome addition to Viiala’s industry-leading team.

    The logistics of creating Viiala’s premium offering

    The brand has stated that its 95% of its components will be sourced from Europe and the USA, with assembly taking place in Europe. Its research and development centres will be established in the locations of Switzerland and Dubai, UAE. Switzerland is chosen because of its close location to suppliers and testing infrastructure. Dubai was selected due for ensuring reliability and thermal validation on its models in hot, dusty and high-load conditions.

    Viiala product accessibility

    The Viiala team are working to the proposed deadline of 3 years, with an anticipated launch of its first model in 2028, with its next two models expected in 2029. As the bikes will be equipped with advanced technology currently not available to the bike market, the prices will range from 15,000 to 20,000 EUR.

    More information about Viiala can be accessed on its website.

  5. 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.

  6. 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

  7. 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.

  8. Stromer facilitates cycle highway project

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    Source: Stromer

    Speed pedelec brand and LEVA-EU member Stromer has participated in facilitating the opening of a new section of the F2 cycle highway

    Stromer has been integral to the official opening of an important part of the F2 cycle highway in the Netherlands. This fast, safe, and comfortable route between Zaltbommel and s-Hertogenbosch offers a sustainable alternative to the busy A2 and contributes to a healthier and more accessible region.

    MyStromer Europe stated they “were proud to facilitate this project. Even more special: the route runs directly past our headquarters in Den Bosch. A perfect match with our mission to make e-bike commuting more attractive and to accelerate sustainable mobility. With the F2, we’re taking another step towards fewer traffic jams, healthier employees, and more sustainable choices. Exactly what Stromer contributes to every single day.”

    Stromer acknowledged the collaboration of Ministerie van Infrastructuur en Waterstaat, Provincie Gelderland, Provincie Noord-Brabant, Gemeente Zaltbommel, Gemeente Maasdriel, Gemeente ‘s-Hertogenbosch and the Fietsersbond, in making the connection a reality.

  9. How electric cargo bikes can save your business money

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    The evidence is stacking up: adding electric cargo bikes to your fleet can save your business serious money, time, and hassle.

    Here’s why the shift makes sense:

    • Lower running costs: Cargo bikes avoid fuel costs, parking charges, mandatory insurance, VED taxes, and more.
    • Proven efficiency: Major players like Amazon, DHL, Evri, and FedEx already use them to streamline deliveries.
    • Faster in the city: In London, e-cargo bikes average 9–10.2 mph compared to just 7.6 mph for cars.
    • Shorter routes: PedalMe’s analysis of 11,800 km of deliveries found bikes cut trip distances by 6%—saving 620 km overall.
    • Zero-emission advantage: Bikes are unaffected by clean air zone charges and restrictions.
    • Environmental impact: Running a diesel van creates 67 times more environmental cost than a cargo bike.
    • Cost per mile: Charging a cargo bike costs around one-eighth that of running a diesel van.
    • Smarter routing: Smaller, more agile bikes navigate urban spaces faster, saving delivery time.
    • Healthier workforce: Regular cycling leads to fitter staff and fewer sick days.
    • Comparable capacity: Despite appearances, reduced route distances mean bikes can match vans in total deliveries over time.

    Why 2025 Is the Year to Buy

    Right now, e-bike prices are at rock bottom. Oversupply from the pandemic boom, paired with cost-of-living pressures, has left retailers heavily discounting 2025 stock. By 2026, prices are expected to stabilise—so there may never be a better time to buy.

    Rising Transport Costs

    Train fares are up again (this year by 4.6%), and car insurance and fuel remain unpredictable. Compare that with e-bike costs: per-mile electricity costs average just 1/7th of a penny, with only minimal maintenance thereafter.

    Try Before You Buy

    Cycling Electric’s nationwide Demo Day events give you the chance to test ride e-bikes, speak to experts, and experience different models. One final event remains at Herne Hill on September 7th.

    Productivity & Predictability

    Cycling doesn’t just cut costs, it boosts performance. Studies link daily active travel to sharper focus, better memory, and greater workplace productivity. Employers benefit too, with returns estimated at up to €6.50 for every €1 invested in cycle-to-work schemes.

    Meanwhile, in congested cities, bikes flow predictably through traffic, offering reliable journey times that cars simply can’t match.

    Safer Than the Headlines Suggest

    Despite negative press, lab data shows genuine e-bikes are extremely safe, with no evidence of battery fires from leading brands. Risks are mainly associated with uncertified conversion kits, not fully manufactured models.

    Wider Benefits for Society

    Cities that prioritise cycling enjoy cleaner air, reduced noise, safer streets, and stronger retail performance. With e-bikes requiring 200 times fewer raw materials than small EVs, their sustainability advantage is undeniable.

    Whether you’re a business seeking efficiency, a commuter dodging rising travel costs, or simply someone looking to live and work smarter, e-bikes offer a rare win–win: saving money while improving wellbeing and the environment.